September 1, 2007
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Editorial

Let's Amend the Lebanese Constitution

The writers of these lines do not endorse constitutional amendment per se. But when it comes to Lebanese presidential elections, it has become evident that a serious flow undermines this already complicated process, which whenever takes place, drives the nation to the verge of a civil war.

First, a simple statement should be added to the text of the constitution. It should read as follows: “Quorum for the election of the president of the republic in Parliament shall be two-thirds on the first session. Should Parliament fail to obtain such quorum in its first session, it shall hold a second session after 48 hours and the quorum shall consist of members present.”

Second, the Lebanese constitution should state with clarity that in cases, except for those of constitutional amendment, majority at any time is considered as a simple majority (half plus one).

Lebanese politicians should refrain from interpreting the constitution according to their agendas. For instance, the constitution defines six conditions under which a cabinet is considered dissolved. None of these conditions took place and still President Emile Lahoud and his buddies form among the cronies of the Syrian regime in Lebanon invented their own interpretation to consider it out of line of the “national convention.”

At this point of constitutional heretics, we ask Mr. Lahoud and his buddies when they say that the Christians are not represented in the executive branch of government: Does Mr. Lahoud consider his post to be part of the executive branch or not? Does he consider himself to be a Christian or not? Answers to both questions are an astounding yes and Lahoud should give up his “smart” interpretations.

National constitutions around the world were drafted to make it easy for states to run their affairs. A constitution is not a puzzle that should be decoded everyday to figure out its meanings. It should not contain items that would obstruct the holding of parliamentary sessions because the Parliament represents the people and whenever it is not in session, it means that the nation is unable to rule itself.