BEIRUT: Civil society activists and organizations from across the country protested on the steps of the National Museum Wednesday demanding peace in the wake of several bombings that have rocked the capital.
Dozens of activists took part in the event, titled “Families of Lebanon Unite ... Youth of Lebanon Unite.”
The demonstrators issued a statement addressing the political elite, asking, “Aren’t you convinced yet that your continuous confrontations feed civil strife, encourage violence and will lead the country down an abyss?”
Participants also held banners stating their frustration. One read: “Electricity, water and peace have become a dream in Lebanon,” and another: “We want the rule of law to govern and we want a government that unites and doesn’t divide.”
Former Justice Minister Bahij Tabbara also addressed the crowd, stressing the need to “build bridges between the Lebanese and accept the opinions of others” and “to stay unified in supporting civil peace so that Lebanon can continue to be a peaceful country.”
Women’s rights activist Linda Matar called for speaking out against any party that feeds on political differences and sectarian sentiments.
The demonstration followed the Dec. 27 attack that killed former Minister Mohammad Shatah and six others in Downtown Beirut, and the Jan. 2 bombing in the southern suburb of Haret Hreik.
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09/01/2014
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