Lebanon has not held a parliamentary election since June 2009. Now thousands of Lebanese aged 21 and over are considering candidates in a May 6 ballot.

Lebanon's current parliament has postponed elections and renewed its term on three occasions. Politicians said the extensions were due to security concerns amid the war in neighbouring Syria, a crippling domestic debt crisis, and disputes over electoral reform - an issue largely resolved with a new electoral law ratified in June 2017.

New political organisations and independent candidates alike are gearing up for the election under a proportional system. Civil society groups, independents and the new Sabaa party have formed an electoral alliance under the Kollona Watani (National Coalition) banner. The coalition argues that its strength is in its numbers and its diversity - 66 candidates drawn from all religious sects - and that it represents a move away from the dynastic character of  traditional parties.

We will ask some of these new voices about advancing alternative political ideas, as well as their hopes for dramatically changing Lebanon's future.

(Click here for Android APP of IBTN. You can follow us on facebook and Twitter)

Share This News

About sharing