Patriarch Rai Calls for Electoral Reform to Preserve Lebanon’s Unity
During a mass marking the Feast of Saint Charbel at the Mar Maroun Monastery in Annaya, Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rai emphasized the urgent need to amend Lebanon’s electoral law, specifically calling for the abolition of Article 112, which limits Lebanese expatriates to six parliamentary seats. According to Rai, this restriction contradicts the principle of connecting the diaspora to their homeland and enabling their full participation in political life within their original constituencies.
“Lebanon is going through difficult and delicate times that require thoughtful solutions, not hasty decisions,” Rai stated. He stressed that granting Lebanese abroad their voting rights in their native districts is essential to safeguarding internal unity.
The Patriarch’s remarks came during a ceremony attended by President Joseph Aoun and First Lady Naamat Aoun, who participated in the inauguration of the “Saint Charbel Trail” pilgrimage routes. Together, they unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the official launch of the trail, which aims to promote spiritual tourism and religious heritage across Lebanon.
President Aoun’s visit was hailed by Rai as a “beacon of hope,” symbolizing the country’s need for leaders who, like Saint Charbel and Prophet Elijah, “speak little, work much, and prioritize service over personal glory.”
The event, held in the presence of senior clerics, including the Apostolic Nuncio Monsignor Paolo Borgia and several bishops, featured prayers and blessings for peace and stability in Lebanon. The plaque inscription officially designates Annaya as “Kilometer Zero” for the Saint Charbel pilgrimage paths, including routes to Shouane/Yahchouch (Faith Trail) and Mifouq (Grace Trail), highlighting Lebanon’s rich spiritual heritage.
Rai concluded his message with a strong appeal for national responsibility:
“To protect Lebanon’s unity, we must ensure every Lebanese, at home or abroad, feels represented in the democratic process.”
