I nominate Dr. Fares Souaid for the presidency of Lebanon.
The Lebanese civil war and militia dominance have decimated rational political discourse, reducing politics to a handful of actors who ignite conflicts, make peace, and rebuild what they’ve destroyed. In the midst of this, a crucial question arises: Who is worthy of leading Lebanon through its current crisis, especially after the collapse of a vital Lebanese-regional axis?
The names now circulating—Ziad Baroud, Nemat Frem, George Khoury, Nassif Hitti, Elias Baissari, Suleiman Frangieh, and General Joseph Aoun—are all tied, in one way or another, to compromises with Hezbollah, often at the expense of Lebanon’s sovereignty. These figures have made concessions for power, roles, or personal gains, and that path is no longer viable.
Lebanon, now, requires a president who has never compromised with Hezbollah, never bowed to the Assad regime, and who is committed to the Lebanese formula: a nation defined by its diversity, where power is shared and peace is upheld under the rule of law. This president must stand firm against separatism, isolationism, and the warlords who continue to undermine Lebanon’s potential.
The Lebanese people deserve a leader who will break free from decades of political stagnation and deliver real change. From the presidency to government formation, Lebanon’s institutions must reflect the standards of modern, democratic nations, free from sectarian quotas and patronage.
Dr. Fares Souaid embodies these values. A staunch advocate for Lebanon’s sovereignty, he was the first to call for an end to the Iranian occupation of Lebanon, a stance many dismissed as extreme at the time. He is committed to the Taif Agreement and opposes any form of division, federalism, or confederation.
Dr. Souaid played a pivotal role in the Cedar Revolution of 2005, working toward reconciliation across Lebanon’s communities, transcending sectarian divides. His dedication to national unity is clear, and he refuses to indulge in sectarian rhetoric, whether from his own Christian background or from other groups in Lebanon.
Dr. Souaid’s leadership is rooted in his integrity, not in power or sectarian alliances. He is well-equipped to rebuild Lebanon’s relationships with the Arab world and beyond, and he has the vision to lead Lebanon into a future based on unity, peace, and prosperity.
For all these reasons, I nominate Dr. Fares Souaid for president of Lebanon.