As a human being, I believe that every individual holds intrinsic value, has the right to seek happiness, and deserves dignity as a top priority.
As a citizen, I dream of a nation that is neither a temporary lodging for its people nor an open arena for outsiders, but a homeland that ensures equality in obligations, opportunities, and rights, rooted in justice for all.
As a Lebanese, I cherish our "pluralism," a defining richness of Lebanon that demands constant safeguarding through a system that prevents its misuse.
As a Lebanese Christian, I uphold openness to others as equals, steering away from subservience, isolation, or a narrow existence.
It would be remiss not to acknowledge the skepticism surrounding former military leaders who rose to the presidency post-Taef Agreement. You are the fourth to transition directly from the Army Commander to the President, following predecessors whose tenures left mixed legacies.
As a Lebanese Maronite, I hold dear what Lebanon's great thinker Charles Malek stressed, which is that high expectations are placed upon the Maronites.
To you, General Joseph Aoun, the promising president of my country, I speak candidly, devoid of flattery or deceit. I was compelled to address you following your inaugural speech, which sewed seeds of hope in the hearts of Lebanese citizens and rekindled their spirits.
It would be remiss not to acknowledge the skepticism surrounding former military leaders who rose to the presidency post-Taef Agreement. You are the fourth to transition directly from the Army Commander to the President, following predecessors whose tenures left mixed legacies.
Another ascended amidst bloodshed in May 2008, but his efforts for reconciliation, like the Baabda Declaration, were undermined and dismissed.
A third arrived with strong popular backing but presided over Lebanon’s worst economic collapse and a massive non-nuclear explosion, squandering many an opportunity to join the ranks of great leaders.
Yet, your tenure as army commander, marked by wisdom and decisiveness, relieves much of this skepticism. Your leadership during pivotal moments like the October 2019 protests and the Tayouneh incident contrasts starkly with the handling of past crises under previous commanders.
There is a collective yearning for leadership reminiscent of President Fouad Chehab. Chehab’s tenure was defined by his restraint, integrity, and dedication to building state institutions. He resisted temptations of power, upheld sovereignty, and prioritized the rule of law, refusing constitutional amendments for personal gain. He is remembered not for founding a political party but for laying the groundwork for a functional state.
I urge you to embody the best of Chehab’s legacy while avoiding the pitfalls of the infamous "Second Bureau," whose oppressive practices tarnished his administration.
From other civilian presidents, draw lessons in political acumen and diplomacy. Let your military discipline translate into statesmanship, and take inspiration from President Bachir Gemayel (7th President), who, even before assuming office, restored institutional order through his mere presence.
Beware of sycophants who may exploit your rise for personal gain. While forming a political movement is your right, guard against the allure of populist rhetoric that compromises rational governance.
Your commitment to upholding the National Pact, safeguarding freedoms, and monopolizing state control over arms inspires confidence. Your acknowledgment of governance failures and embrace of "positive neutrality" open the door to a transparent debate on Lebanon's future.
On behalf of all Lebanese weary from wars, crises, and despair, I urge you to seize this golden moment. Be a blend of Camille Chamoun's (2nd President) shrewdness, Bachir’s determination, and Chehab’s institutional vision—without a "Second Bureau." History, like the people, will undoubtedly judge you fairly, as it did Chehab.