(WARREN, MI) — The Lebanese Forces Detroit Chapter met for their monthly general meeting on Saturday. Following the meeting, the organization hosted a member barbecue and gathering.
President Tony Malouf announced the conclusion of his term this upcoming October. He encouraged current members to consider running for what he called a “very rewarding” position.
The group also began the planning stages for the Lebanese Forces Detroit Annual Banquet and Scholarship Dinner, which will take place on September 20.
The Lebanese Forces members also discussed the ongoing political turmoil in Lebanon, after the country plunged into a presidential void on May 25. Former President Michel Sleiman’s term ended without a successor, leaving no candidate able to garner enough votes to win the election.
“It’s a sad time for people in and outside of Lebanon. The number one post belongs to the Christians and unfortunately, some of the Christians along with the March 8 movement are boycotting the election,” Malouf said. “They wont nominate anyone from their side to go against the nominee from March 14 and they won’t attend and vote for anyone.”
Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea challenged his Christian rival MP Michel Aoun to run against him in the next presidential election on Wednesday. Members of the Lebanese Forces in Detroit say they have moved beyond party lines, now they just want a new president.
“Lebanese Forces wants for all Lebanese to come and do their duties, nominate and elect a president. We don’t want a vacancy in the Christian post.”
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