Lebanese Politician Walid Jumblatt Steps Down as Leader of Progressive Socialist Party
Lebanese politician Walid Jumblatt has resigned as leader of the Progressive Socialist Party, a position he has held since inheriting it from his father in 1977.
Jumblatt's decision is rare as leaders typically do not voluntarily step down from their positions.
The party will hold a general election conference on June 25, per the provisions of its constitution and internal regulations.
Jumblatt's resignation comes as Lebanon is experiencing a severe political crisis, with parliament unable to elect a new president for seven months.
There have been reports of differences between Jumblatt and his son Taymour regarding the approach to electing the next president.
Jumblatt has denied any differences with his son and expressed his desire to "make way for the new generation." The person in question is one of the founders of the March 14 Alliance and played a key role in the Cedar Revolution against Syrian domination in Lebanon.
He also participated in the 1984 uprising with Amal Movement leader Nabih Berri, which led to the downfall of the May 17 Agreement with Israel.
After entering parliament in 1991, he held various ministerial positions, including as minister of public works, tourism, and migrants' affairs.
He also testified before the special tribunal for Lebanon regarding the assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri and his testimony was considered directly related to the assassination operation and the reasons behind it.
The party will hold a general election conference on June 25, per the provisions of its constitution and internal regulations.
Jumblatt's resignation comes as Lebanon is experiencing a severe political crisis, with parliament unable to elect a new president for seven months.
There have been reports of differences between Jumblatt and his son Taymour regarding the approach to electing the next president.
Jumblatt has denied any differences with his son and expressed his desire to "make way for the new generation." The person in question is one of the founders of the March 14 Alliance and played a key role in the Cedar Revolution against Syrian domination in Lebanon.
He also participated in the 1984 uprising with Amal Movement leader Nabih Berri, which led to the downfall of the May 17 Agreement with Israel.
After entering parliament in 1991, he held various ministerial positions, including as minister of public works, tourism, and migrants' affairs.
He also testified before the special tribunal for Lebanon regarding the assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri and his testimony was considered directly related to the assassination operation and the reasons behind it.