What our other readers are saying:
Aoun the lesser of the evils
I feel all leaders elected thus far have primarily been sectarian-based. Jumblatt can be aptly described as Lebanon's John Kerry – a "flip-flopper". Hariri is way too inexperienced. Berri is holding Lebanon hostage with Hizbullah. Aoun is extreme, but so far he is the only candidate who has hinted at anything for the good of the entire country. Being the lesser of the evils – let's give him a chance.
N. Jacob, Sydney, Australia
Rebirth of Lebanon
I think the rebirth of Lebanon is taking place. It's important to remember that this will take more time and will not be achieved overnight. The Syrians have been ousted, even though it seems it's only on the surface for now. ...
Unfortunately, Lebanon will lose more brain power like Messrs. Hariri and Kassir along the way, but I think the end result will be a strong and sovereign Lebanon.
Fouad Batlouni, Austin, Texas, U.S.A.
De facto occupation
There is no question that the importance of the ongoing Lebanese elections centers on the fact that they are being held free of Syrian tutelage, which supposedly allows the Lebanese to voice their demands in the ballot.
These appearances belie the fact that we have a bigger problem than the Syrian occupation. We have de facto occupation of the national parliament by some stubborn, corrupt, and feudal leaders [who are concerned more with] personal monetary rewards rather than addressing the country's enormous problems.
These corrupt leaders have survived the war, as well as the syrian occupation. They are coming back in force to "reoccupy" what they believe naturally belongs to them (i.e. the seats in our parliament). To claim Lebanon as our country – free from any domination – our task now is to rid the country of these politicians if we are to establish democracy and elect leaders more representative of the people.
Michael C. Constantin, Newport Beach, California, U.S.A.
Not a step forward
I dont think [the elections are] a step forward for democracy. On the contrary, in Beirut, there was practically no voting. The people on Hariri's and Jumblat's lists were easily nominated. The same thing goes for Berri's list in the south.
The Parliament has adopted the same law invented by the Syrians. So the same people will come back to the Parliament, which means more corruption and feudalism. For the time being, there is no hope for Lebanon, unless [the upcoming elections in the other regions of Lebanon] result in better representation.
Afife Kayaleh, Hazmieh, Beirut, Lebanon
Put religion aside
People have to put their religion aside and think about their country, but this is not allowed to happen because a lot of leaders - political and religious - will lose their power. It is a pity Lebanon needs a leader who can shake the earth beneath these thieves.
Hoda Diab, Brussels, Belgium
'Walking toward democracy'
It's a conflicting situation for participants, but Lebanon is walking toward democracy. The process may be slow, but realignments are taking place.
Ruben De Leon, Kansas City, U.S.A.
