Lebanon Elections 2005

6/25/2005
	Berri visits Sfeir ahead of re-election Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum ,Maroun Khoury (Daily Star staff) The battle to elect a new House speaker took a decisive turn, with former Speaker Nabih Berri visiting Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir, in a step widely seen as seeking support for his candidacy to the post. The visit came as the French Foreign Ministry denied media reports claiming Paris was opposed to Berri's re-election.
	Filling Speaker's seat tests opposition unity Lebanon, Politics Walid Choucair Having obtained a majority in Parliament the opposition now finds itself in the difficult predicament of having to hold the reigns of power with President Emile Lahoud lingering in the background.
	Geagea release priority for Lebanese Forces and allies Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) MP-elect George Adwan reiterated the Lebanese Forces' alliance with the Future Movement and Progressive Socialist Party is "political and goes beyond the parliamentary polls." In a meeting with MP-elect Saad Hariri, Adwan, accompanied by MP-elect Elie Keyrouz, said discussions focused on several issues.
	Samir Franjieh's summer home set on fire after break-in Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) The summer house of newly elected Zghorta MP Samir Franjieh was broken into late Thursday and set on fire, but no one was reported hurt as the house was deserted. When contacted by The Daily Star, Samir Franjieh said: "The people who did this are militiamen. They broke into our house and tried to burn it down, but unsuccessfully, as the police were called in as soon as we heard about the break-in."
	Clerics express concern at the unstable security situation Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) The Higher Shiite Council Vice President Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan and senior Shiite cleric Sayyed Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah slammed the unstable security situation in the country, which they believe "could reintroduce foreign tutelage here."
6/24/2005
	Solidere leads post-election market surge Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Promises of economic aid to Lebanon, increasing investment confidence and the landslide victory of the son of late Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in the parliamentary elections have lifted the prices of Solidere shares to more than $13 for the first time in seven years. Prices of Solidere A and B shares closed at $13.49 and $13.40.
	Anti-Syrian coalition targets Lahoud Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's anti-Syrian coalition, which swept parliamentary elections this month, declared President Emile Lahoud responsible for the series of political assassinations that have rocked the country over the past five months and demanded he step down.
	Amal stresses need to consolidate political alliance with Hizbullah Lebanon, Politics Therese Sfeir (Daily Star staff) In light of the results of the parliamentary elections and the sweeping victory of Hizbullah and the Amal Movement, particularly in South Lebanon and the Bekaa, Amal's Central Committee held an emergency meeting on Thursday in which it stressed the necessity to consolidate the political alliance.
	When there is a will...there are ways! Lebanon, Politics Fadi Saab (Special to The Daily Star) Again and again, various politicians and their vocal supporters present some different, and many not so different, future plans or programs. But once again, our nation remains unsatisfied with such general frameworks without the accompanying detailed action plans and specific execution scenarios.
6/23/2005
	Election fever spreads quickly from parents to children Lebanon, Local News Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) When Adam and Nabil - pseudonyms for two young boys aged 8 and 9 - meet to play, they do not use matchbox cars and water guns like normal kids around the world. They would rather hang a picture of the politician they like least - or that their parents like least - and shout at it, making obscene gestures in the process.
	Satirical tune strikes a chord with citizens Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) With election fever simmering down, a satirical song lampooning politicians and all their "supposed" work is heating up the airwaves, amid growing doubts that the first elections free from Syrian influence will actually bring about real change.
	Aoun signals cooperation with Hariri Lebanon, Politics Maroun Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) Free Patriotic Movement leader and Kesrouan MP Michel Aoun is now willing to cooperate with Beirut MP Saad Hariri on the basis of a reform plan and anti-corruption projects. Speaking after a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir, Aoun said: "We extend our hand to everybody, but we ask 'what does that hand offer?
	Politicians' continued campaign rhetoric is jeopardizing country's credibility Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun has vowed to fight corruption in the government, which he blames for the country's ballooning public debt, but will the Kesrouan MP actually be able to make good on his promises?
6/22/2005
	Lebanese in France organize expatriate elections Lebanon, Politics Jim Quilty (Daily Star staff) It's almost a point of pride among Lebanese that more of them live outside the country than inside. A local publication once opined that six million Lebanese lived in Brazil alone. Their only Arabic may be "tabbouleh" and "kibbe" but they're still, somehow, Lebanese.
	Mikati tenders his resignation to Lahoud Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Prime Minister Najib Mikati tendered his resignation yesterday, in accordance with the country's Constitution, after the parliamentary elections came to an end. bThe new Parliament will hold its first session Tuesday to elect a new speaker, a deputy, two secretaries and three committee chairpersons.
	Foreign ambassadors offer support for reform efforts Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) Foreign ambassadors visiting Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun in Rabieh to congratulate him on his parliamentary victory expressed their readiness to help Lebanon introduce reforms and repeated calls for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1559.
	Five Syrians arrested in aftermath of anti-Damascus politician's murder Lebanon, Local News Leila Hatoum ,Nada Bakri (Daily Star staff) Internal Security Forces arrested five Syrian nationals shortly after the murder of anti-Syrian politician George Hawi in a car bomb. Witnesses close to the blast site said the men were hiding on the roof of a nearby building.
	No direct reason for targeting Hawi Lebanon, Politics Rosana Bou Monsef The assassination of the former Communist Party leader George Hawi in Beirut, 19 days after the assassination of journalist Samir Kassir and using the same method, can be viewed as achieving two goals. First, targeting Hawi aims to prove the absence of stability in Lebanon and stir confusion in the country.
	Hawi assassination provokes fierce international condemnation Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The assassination of former Lebanese Communist Party leader George Hawi triggered immediate international and local condemnation, with world leaders voicing their belief the attack was an attempted blow to the country's unity. The White House demanded an investigation into the killing and linked the slaying to Syria's "long and continued" influence over its neighbor.
	Mourners converge at blast site to pay tribute and express fears for the future Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine ,James Fitz-Morris (Daily Star staff) At least two thousand people converged on the corner where Hawi was assassinated, gathering for a candle lit vigil held at sunset. As mourners gathered they threw roses on the spot where the blast occurred and others lit candles and placed them near Hawi's shattered car which was still where it had come to rest some 200 meters away.
	Washington points finger at Syria over Hawi assassination Lebanon, Politics Michael Glackin (Daily Star staff) Washington again pointed an accusing finger at Syria following the murder of Lebanese politician George Hawi, insisting Damascus was responsible for an "atmosphere of instability" which led to Beirut's third political assassination in four months. Hawi, a former leader of the Lebanese Communist Party and vocal critic of Syria in recent years.
	UN investigators search security chief's home Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) A UN investigator questioned Brigadier General Mustafa Hamdan, the head of Lebanon's presidential guard, and searched his home as part of the probe into the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. Hamdan is the highest-profile pro-Syrian security chief to keep his job after Hariri's assassination in February.
6/21/2005
	Lebanese expatriates: voices in the wilderness Lebanon, Local News Jim Quilty (Daily Star staff) Even if you avert your eyes from its sectarianism, Lebanon's democracy has a number of eccentricities. For instance, this country, renowned for having more citizens living overseas than within, does not allow expatriates to vote from abroad. Other countries with more sedentary populations - Canada, for example - do.
	Hizbullah-Amal alliance is 'model of democracy' Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe (Daily Star correspondent ) As the final round of parliamentary elections drew to a close Sunday, political and religious figures echoed the satisfaction of many Lebanese over the outcome of the South Lebanon and Bekaa polls.
	Lebanon's state-owned television and radio stations slated for privatization Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Plans to merge and sell cash strapped state-owned television and radio stations to the private sector is one of the measures expected to be adopted by the next Cabinet. Sources told The Daily Star that the government has already received offers for both the television and radio stations. They added that the current.
	Politicians divided over 'unifying' elections Lebanon, Politics Rita Boustani (Daily Star staff) The sweeping victory of the opposition's alliance in Sunday's elections sparked mixed reactions in the country, with some figures decrying the rise of sectarianism and others hailing the vote as a vote for "national unity."
	Saad Hariri faces tough inheritance as Lebanon's budding politician Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Saad Hariri, who claimed victory in Lebanon's first post-Syrian election, has earned the right to follow the path which led his father Rafik five times to the prime minister's office before his murder in February this year.
	Israeli plane spotted in Lebanese skies on election day Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) On election day, Sunday, the Lebanese army witnessed an unexpected visitor in the air, an Israeli warplane, that flew the length of the Mediterranean coast from the South border to just short of the North city of Tripoli, where the last round of elections were being held.
	EU observers urge reform of sectarian political system Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) There is urgent need for complete reform of Lebanon's sectarian political system which is in breach of UN conventions, according to the head of the European Union Elections Observation Mission. In a press conference held to mark the end of the country's crucial parliamentary polls, the mission said:
	Socialist International praises election conduct Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri (Special to The Daily Star) The head of Socialist International, an umbrella organization of the world's socialist parties, said the Lebanese parliamentary elections concluded Sunday were "transparent, democratic and problem free." Luis Ayala, SI's secretary general and lead election observer, was speaking during a news conference at Progressive Socialist Party headquarters in Beirut.
	U.S. and Europe praise Lebanon's elections Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The United States and European Union praised Lebanon's elections and said they would consider convening an international conference to solicit support for the country's new government. In a joint statement released last night, Washington and Brussels said: "Once the Lebanese government has defined its reform.
6/20/2005
	Franjieh says Sabaa manipulated by Hariri Lebanon, Politics Rita Boustani (Daily Star staff) Zghorta MP Suleiman Franjieh accused Interior Minister Hassan Sabaa on Saturday of being "manipulated" by Beirut MP-elect Saad Hariri and of being publicly in favor of the latter in the elections. But the minister also issued a statement on Saturday asserting his ministry had not interfered in favor of any party.
	Tripoli marked by fierce battle Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) Tensions ran high in the North's capital city of Tripoli, a city stamped with fierce competition between the running candidates, and an overall disappointing voter turnout of 40 percent.
	Koura witnesses 50 percent voter turnout Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri (Special to The Daily Star) The predominantly Christian coastal town of Koura in the North's second district witnessed a voter turnout of 50 percent with 12 candidates contesting the three Greek Orthodox seats there. The two main competing lists were the "Reconciliation and Reform" coalition list, which includes the Future Movement.
	Voters rush to polls in Franjieh territory Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) For MP Suleiman Franjieh, labeled a "Syrian symbol" throughout the election campaign, Sunday's polls were a chance to prove his legitimacy. Voters turned out in large numbers in this mostly Christian qada, which has backed the Franjieh family for decades, to support the "People's Will".
	Accusations of bribery taint Northern polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Accusations of vote-buying continued to be thrown about in Batroun amid fierce competition between the two main lists in this coastal area of 55,822 eligible voters. The contest rolled on throughout the day between the "People's Will" list backed by Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun and the "Reconciliation and Reform".
	Karami launches searing attack on government-to-be Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) The legitimacy of the next Parliament was called into question by former Prime Minister Omar Karami, who alleged the new government was the result of political bribery. Speaking at a news conference, Karami said:
	Bsharri votes for LF leader's freedom Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Under tight army security, the electoral district of Bsharri, hometown of imprisoned Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea, witnessed its fiercest parliamentary electoral battle since the Civil War ended 15 years ago.
	Akkar polls pass without interference Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The fourth and final round of Lebanon's parliamentary elections in the North's first district of Akkar-Dinnieh-Bsharri was held without worries of Syrian interference, after a long and vicious campaign marked by allegations of sectarian agitation and vote buying.
	Northerners turn out en masse to vote Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) "I have never seen such participation at elections before," said Anwar Chidiac, a 56 year-old Qobeiyat resident. "It's such a phenomenon." The North Lebanon polls, in which over 100 candidates fought for the remaining 28 parliamentary seats, was definitely the most heavily attended and competitive of all four voting districts, with sectarian tensions running high.
	Lebanon's opposition claims victory Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's anti-Syrian opposition looked set to win outright control of Parliament last night in the decisive final round of the country's first elections free of Syrian control in almost 30 years. Early indications from North Lebanon showed the united list of Saad Hariri, the son of murdered former Premier Rafik Hariri, had won enough seats.
6/18/2005
	Yassin Jaber: A man and his community Lebanon, Politics Jim Quilty (Daily Star staff) "Being involved in politics over the last 10 years, I've done as much as I could," Yassin Jaber coughs. "Though things haven't gone as we would've hoped. "Lebanon has advanced but it doesn't have a modern administration. We need reform more complex than sacking a director. Reform must be fundamental.
	Hizbullah: Politics, resistance don't conflict Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Following the announcement of its intentions to participate fully in the formation of Lebanon's next government, the Islamic resistance group Hizbullah dismissed alleged contradictions in this step with its role as a resistance party.
	Candidates urged to be regionally aware Lebanon, Politics Walid Choucair On the sidelines of the final round of parliamentary elections, some political insiders are urging candidates and their respective parties to take into consideration regional developments and their potential repercussions in Lebanon.
	Shiite clerics call for unity Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) Senior Shiite cleric Sayyed Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah urged those allied under national and Arab slogans to assume their responsibilities in protecting their country and to prevent any new international tutelage.
	Mikati seeks to cut costs in public sector Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Prime Minister Najib Mikati said yesterday that the overblown size of the public sector should be seriously addressed in order to cut waste and put the country's finances on the right track. "Cutting waste and increasing state revenues are among the main items in any economic plan that will encourage the West to help Lebanon financially.
	Foreign investment in Lebanon remains firm Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) The government sponsored Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL) has processed foreign investment of more than $312 million in the first five months of 2005 despite the murder of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, the head of IDAL said. "We are doing quite well despite the assassination of Hariri.
	A beginner's guide to the elections Lebanon, Politics Lebanon's final round of parliamentary elections will be held in the North on Sunday. The elections were held on four successive Sundays from May 29 till June 19 and are the first after the Syrian withdrawal from Lebanon. The seats are divided into regions which are subsequently subdivided into constituencies.
	U.S. ambassador warns Lebanon on economic aid Lebanon, Politics Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Lebanon should not expect any international economic assistance unless UN Resolution 1559 is fully implemented, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Jeffrey Feltman warned yesterday. His comments will increase speculation that any U.S.-led Western economic-aid package will only be delivered if Lebanese resistance group Hizbullah.
	Stage set for fierce fight in Lebanon's last round of polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum ,Rym Ghazal , Nicolas Tohme (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's last round of parliamentary elections takes place tomorrow with the stage set for another fierce competition between the country's opposition alliance and Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun. There are 28 seats up for grabs in North Lebanon and Sunday's vote will be decisive for the main opposition bloc's ambition to win control of Parliament.
6/17/2005
	Lebanon's GDP likely to fall this year Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh projected Lebanon's GDP growth at only 2 percent in 2005, and that inflation would stand at 4 percent. Speaking at the opening of the Arab Economic Forum at Beirut's Phoenicia Inter-Continental Hotel, Salameh told more than 800 Arab businessmen and bankers that bank deposits.
	Qatar urges Lebanon to upgrade oil refineries Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Lebanon should upgrade its two aging oil refineries in order to reduce prices and supply refined oil to the outside world, Qatar's second Deputy Prime Minister and Energy and Industry Minister Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah said.
	Power of words: what they reveal about politicians Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) "Change," "united," "pro-Syrian," "anti-Syrian," "reformist" and "traditionalist," are a few of the key words that have shaped this year's Lebanese parliamentary election campaigns, and may have in turn shaped those who use them, and hear them.
	Palestinians concerned over housing project Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) Palestinians in the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp have voiced concerns after the European Commission's Human aid Office and Premiere Urgence, a French international aid organization, presented a proposal to reconstruct and restore 85 collapsed homes in an area of the camp known as the "railway."
	Politicians go the extra mile to gain votes in the North elections Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum ,Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) Politicians continued to gather support in North Lebanon ahead of the country's final round of elections, as Saad Hariri announced his list for the district's second district. Speaking to tens of thousands of supporters near the Rashid Karami Hall in Tripoli, newly elected Beirut MP Hariri called for a heavy voter turnout on Sunday.
	Final round of polls is decisive in Lebanon's political future Lebanon, Politics Zeina Abu Rizk Those politicians who opposed the qada-based electoral draft law on the basis it would confirm sectarianism in the country have dramatically failed to prove that the 2000 law they approved instead was a guarantee against this threat. All this reinstated legislation has done so far is reinforce the divisions in Parliament into clear-cut confessional blocs ready to engage in a sectarian battle at any moment.
	Interim Cabinet meets in final session Lebanon, Politics Nafez Qawas (Daily Star correspondent ) President Emile Lahoud said the interim Cabinet has succeeded in achieving the major aspects of its ministerial agenda and hoped that its reform projects would be carried on by the next government.
	Tripoli welcomes influx of campaigners and cash Lebanon, Politics Five days before the final day of elections and the coastal road to Tripoli is already busier than usual with heavy traffic much like that seen heading from Beirut to the South or Bekaa in the run-up to previous voting days.
	Arms smuggling into Lebanon suspected Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) Allegations of arms smuggling from Syria into Lebanon surfaced as U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice reiterated accusations that Syria is influencing Lebanon's elections. "The Syrians are still trying through, we believe, their surreptitious means in Lebanon to continue to have an affect on Lebanese elections there," Rice said in an interview with the American network MSNBC.
	Erdogan urges Arabs to dismantle trade barriers Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Arab states to dismantle all custom barriers to boost mutual trade. With any eye on the huge Arab market, Erdogan told over 800 Arab investors and bankers participating in the 11th Arab Economic Forum in Beirut that Turkey will open its doors to all types of investment from the region.
6/16/2005
	Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement sets out its program for reform Lebanon, Politics Revitalizing the democratic institutions that had fallen, during the years of the occupation, hostage to a patron-client system that marginalized and even corrupted those institutions. A first step would be the holding of free elections on the basis of an electoral law that ensures a genuine representation of the political and cultural diversity of Lebanese society.
	Sidon dump crisis remains unresolved Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star correspondent ) Despite official proclamations, the decision to close the dump polluting Sidon's environment may never be implemented. Mayor Abdel-Rahman Bizri had said a few weeks ago that the closure of the dump would be completed by June 16.
	Strida Geagea wages single-minded campaign to free jailed husband Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Strida Geagea is campaigning relentlessly ahead of Lebanon's last round of elections with one aim in mind: the release of her husband Samir Geagea, the jailed leader of a Christian militia. Decked out in designer labels from head to toe, Strida, 37, is one of the few women running in the male-dominated elections, which wrap up on Sunday in North Lebanon.
	Aoun's 'tsunami' in third round elections has caused an upheaval Lebanon, Politics Philip Abi akl The third round of parliamentary elections in Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa confirmed the Christian street is mobilized behind Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), whose recent victory over some of the country's key political figures has created an upheaval and brought an array of new faces to the Lebanese Parliament.
	Mouawad accuses Syria of trying to paralyze Parliament Lebanon, Politics Nicolas Tohme (Daily Star correspondent ) As the fourth and final electoral battle approaches, Zghorta MP Nayla Mouawad said Wednesday "Syria and its Lebanese security and authority allies are attempting to paralyze the Parliament." Mouawad, who is a candidate in elections this Sunday said these attempts are being made via "a security bloc" formed by an opposing electoral list.
	Qabalan insists Islam rejects terrorism and violence Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) Islam rejects terror, Higher Shiite Council Vice-President Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan told a delegation from the Middle East Council of Churches on Wednesday. He also urged both Christians and Muslims to abandon sectarianism.
	Hizbullah supports Lahoud's desire to complete remainder of his mandate Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Hizbullah's Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem said his party supports President Emile Lahoud serving out the remainder of his term, despite opposition calls to cut short his mandate. Speaking during a news conference late last night, Qassem said Hizbullah "will not support calls to cut short Lahoud's presidential term."
6/15/2005
	Arslan barred from entering serail after clashes Lebanon, Politics Maher Zeineddine (Daily Star correspondent ) Lebanese Democratic Party President Talal Arslan slammed the Lebanese Army for barring him and his bodyguards access to the Arslan Serail in Shoueifat following clashes there between his supporters and those of his rival Walid Jumblatt the previous day.
	Why wouldn't the Christians vote for Michel Aoun? Lebanon, Politics Rosana Bou Monsef Why have Christians voted for Michel Aoun and given him the leadership of such a large bloc in Parliament? Perhaps the question that should have been asked is: "Why wouldn't the Christians vote for Michel Aoun?"
	Mikati says Lebanon's top priority is balanced relations with Syria Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) Prime Minister Najib Mikati has described the debate over the resignation of President Emile Lahoud as pointless, adding that Lebanon's most important task was to seek balanced relations with Syria. In an interview with Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Qabas, Mikati said:
	Harb: Polls meet people's demand to vote freely Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) Electoral hopeful and sitting Batroun MP Butros Harb denied the consolidation of sectarian divisions, saying "we are ready to cooperate with anyone shifting from the other camp to our camp to build a modern state."
	Sfeir denies planning to reunite Lahoud and Aoun Lebanon, Politics Mansour Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir dismissed speculation that he planned to reunite President Emile Lahoud and FPM leader Michel Aoun in Bkirki reiterating Lahoud's resignation should be constitutional.
	West discusses Lebanese economic aid deal Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) The United States, France, Britain and the World Bank are considering an economic aid package for Lebanon if political and economic reforms are implemented, a French Foreign Ministry spokesman said. "Senior officials from the U.S., France, Britain and the World Bank met in Paris recently to discuss a possible request.
	Hariri helps launch Beirut tourism initiative Lebanon, Business Speaking at the launch of "Lebanon's Summer" a business project to promote tourism, newly elected MP Saad Hariri, the son of slain former premier Rafik Hariri, praised the resiliance of the country's business community and people.
	Cedarcom invests $4 million in Cisco technology Lebanon, Business Will Rasmussen (Daily Star staff) Cedarcom, a Lebanese wireless-data provider, announced a $4 million investment yesterday in a new broadband system featuring technology from Cisco Systems, highlighting the growing competition in Lebanon's wireless sector.
	Aoun sets sights on North Lebanon seats Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) The final make up of Lebanon's Parliament will be determined this weekend, when the last 28 parliamentary seats up for grabs in North Lebanon will be decided. Fresh from his election victory in last week's round of elections, Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun, who was exiled from Lebanon after his "War of Liberation".
6/14/2005
	Mount Lebanon polls stir memories of Civil War Lebanon, Politics The stone houses of Souk al-Gharb are gradually being restored. People are trickling back to the mountain resort overlooking Beirut and the Mediterranean. But few who voted here Sunday forget being forced to flee by some of the fiercest battles of the 1975-1990 Civil War, which reduced their town to ruins.
	Lebanon's budget deficit drops 5 percent Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's budget deficit in the first five months of 2005 fell by 5 percent to $1.955 billion from $2.116 billion in the same period of 2004, thanks to a drop in debt servicing, the Finance Ministry said. Cost of debt servicing, which is considered the largest spending item in the government budget.
	Aoun cements his electoral alliance with Suleiman Franjieh Lebanon, Politics Nicolas Tohme (Daily Star correspondent ) Ahead of the final round of the country's parliamentary elections, Free Patriotic Movement leader and MP-elect Michel Aoun consolidated his alliance with Zghorta MP Suleiman Franjieh, bringing him together with former Prime Minister Omar Karami. Aoun and Franjieh visited Karami at his home in Tripoli, one month after Franjieh.
	FPM victory scores leadership position of 21-seat parliamentary bloc Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) General Michel Aoun's overwhelming victory in the third round of parliamentary elections in Mount Lebanon and Zahle propelled him into the leadership position of the 21 seat parliamentary bloc. Held on Sunday in Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa districts, the polls were the fiercest round so far of the country's first elections to be held free.
	Aoun's victory provokes mixed reactions Lebanon, Politics James Fitz-Morris (Special to The Daily Star) Reaction to General Michel Aoun's election success depends largely on where one stands, not just politically, but sometimes physically. Mohammad Farchoukh is a member of Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement and is among the remaining few who maintain the small protest at Martyrs' Square.
	Accusations of election fraud spark official inquiry Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) As parliamentary elections are nearing their end with the final round scheduled in the North for Sunday, persistent accusations of bribery and vote-buying from all across the political spectrum have finally spurred official investigations.
	Disabled citizens still struggling to place their votes Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) "Would someone explain to me why on earth the needs of people like us are not taken into account?" That was the desperate cry of a young handicapped person in Jbeil. He was one of many disabled citizens who faced difficulties reaching voting booths on election day, or were unable to cast ballots at all.
	Aoun reconciles Syria's two staunchest allies in bid to win last round of elections Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Fresh from his victory in Sunday's elections, Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun reconciled Syria's two staunchest allies in North Lebanon in a bid to secure support for his election list ahead of next week's polls in the region.
	U.S. lauds Lebanon polls but warns against Syrian meddling Lebanon, Politics Linda Dahdah (Daily Star staff) Washington last night praised Lebanon's elections but again warned Syria against interfering in its smaller neighbor. White House spokesperson Scott McClellan said: "People feel that the elections are being conducted well."
6/13/2005
	Jbeil-Kesrouan voters enjoy variety of choice Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) In the third and most decisive round of Lebanon's parliamentary elections, voter participation in the Jbeil-Kesrouan district was fueled by a sense that Sunday's polls were the first true elections to be held in decades. Three lists competed over the district's seven Maronite and one Shiite seat.
	Baabda-Aley polls prompt heavy turnout Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum ,Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Mount Leba-non's third electoral district of Baabda-Aley witnessed heavy voting as competition between the two main lists drove people out to cast ballots in the country's most heated round of elections Sunday. As polling stations closed, the overall voting percentage was reported to exceed 50 percent
	Jumblatt, Hamade take uncontested seats Lebanon, Politics Maher Zeineddine (Daily Star correspondent ) Some 166,447 voters cast their ballots in the Chouf, about 46 percent voter turnout, to elect six MPs after the uncontested victories of Chouf MPs Walid Jumblatt and Marwan Hamade. Three tickets were competing in the Chouf. The first, the National Struggle Front, included George Adwan, Elie Aoun, Nabil Boustany, Neameh Tohmeh, Mohammad Hajjar and Alaeddine Tirro.
	Metn witnesses 55 percent turnout Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal ,Raed El Rafei (Daily Star staff) Feuding brothers, child campaigners and an intense Christian voter turnout characterized polls in the Metn area, the second district in Lebanon's third round of elections. Turnout was reported at some 55 percent in the predominantly Christian area. In Metn, aside from a few independent candidates.
	Clashes marr polls despite high security measures Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) The elections in Mount Lebanon's third electoral district of Baabda-Aley were colored with security clashes as police and army officers struggled to keep the voting stations and surrounding areas secure. Sunday's polls in central and eastern Lebanon proved to be the fiercest electoral battle yet with anti-Syrian factions squaring off against each other.
	Baalbek-Hermel backs Hizbullah Lebanon, Politics Morshed al-Ali (Daily Star correspondent ) Hizbullah's electoral list took the majority of votes in Baalbek-Hermel, which saw a total voter turnout of 50 percent. Three electoral lists competed in the Bekaa first district with a sweeping victory for Hizbullah and its allies, including the Syrian Social Nationalist Party, the Baath Party, the Amal movement and the Phalange Party.
	Bekaa candidates exchange accusations of vote-buying Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri (Special to The Daily Star) Elections in the Bekaa were plagued by allegations of candidates buying votes and withholding voter registration cards by both sides of the political divide. In the third district's villages, which include a majority of Sunnis voters and a minority of Shiites, Druze and Christian, polling stations witnessed a crucial competition between the Future Movement-Progressive Socialist Party coalition and the "Bekaa Referential" list.
	Aoun sweeps to victory in Mount Lebanon, Zahle Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Special to The Daily Star) Lebanon's Michel Aoun, who only returned home last month after 15 years in exile, was poised for a remarkable political comeback last night according to preliminary results in the third round of elections. Aoun's arch rival, Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, conceded defeat last night in the most closely contested battle of this year's election.
6/11/2005
	Political Web sites offer Lebanese open platform to express views Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) Thanks to a new wave of political Web sites and discussion groups, with the click of a mouse, Lebanese are discovering new avenues to express their views and displeasure with their leaders. Since the murder of former Premier Rafik Hariri and the ensuing "Independence Intifada," there has been a growing interest in Web sites addressing Lebanese political.
	Previous polls have shaped the final rounds Lebanon, Politics Walid Choucair The third round of Lebanon's parliamentary elections, to be held in Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa this weekend, is taking place in light of new political developments that will shape the post-election period starting June 20.
	Nasrallah: Hizbullah can integrate with government Lebanon, Politics Morshed al-Ali (Daily Star correspondent ) Hizbullah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said Friday the resistance is seeking to cooperate with the government in standing up to the internal and international challenges facing the country.
	Lahoud accuses Jumblatt of forging facts and misleading citizens Lebanon, Politics Therese Sfeir (Daily Star staff) President Emile Lahoud attacked key opposition leader and Chouf MP Walid Jumblatt on Friday, accusing the Druze chief of misleading citizens and forging facts. Responding to Jumblatt's allegations, made during a Thursday interview broadcast on LBC, that the president was harboring and aiding pro-Syrian security forces, Lahoud said:
	Years after sectarian massacre wartime foes join forces Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Fifteen years after the end of Lebanon's civil war, residents of Kfar Matta - the scene of bloody sectarian massacres - are to vote on Sunday for tickets grouping long-time Druze and Christian foes. "The alliance between Christian and Druze candidates is a good thing and a first step toward reconciliation," said Shaheen Ghareeb, a Druze resident of this mountain village outside Beirut.
	U.S. steps up attack on Syria over 'hit list' Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) President George W. Bush stepped up his attacks on Syria last night, after a U.S. official said Damascus had compiled an "assassination hit list" targeting Lebanese political leaders. The accusation comes a week after the assassination of anti-Syrian Lebanese journalist Samir Kassir which has fueled speculation that Syrian intelligence units are still operating in Lebanon.
	Lebanon prepares for fiercest round of elections Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The most eagerly awaited and keenly contested round of voting in Lebanon's parliamentary elections takes place tomorrow as voters head to polls to elect 58 MPs to the country's 128-member assembly. The third round of voting takes place in Mount Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa Valley and the scene is set for a fierce battle.

6/10/2005
	After the elections the challenges really begin Lebanon, Politics In official circles, the political horizon looks particularly gloomy for the coming months, with a high ranking official source recently describing the post-elections challenges as "complex and dangerous."
	Opposition scales up attacks on Aoun Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's opposition scaled up its attack against Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun Thursday, accusing him of dealing with pro-Syrian figures and breaking up the unity of the country's opposition. The attack against Aoun is a prelude for a heavy electoral battle set to take place in the Kesrouan-Jbeil area of Mount Lebanon.
	Doctor runs for office amid national political upheaval Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) A lengthy career in behind-the-scenes politics has brought Salim Salhab center stage in this year's parliamentary elections, with the secular urologist running for office for the first amid mounting national political upheaval. Having served as president of the secular National Bloc Party (NBP) until 2003, Salhab says he never approved of, or participated in, Lebanon's.
6/9/2005
	Election by appointment Lebanon, Politics Philip Abi akl On Sunday, the country will witness the third round of parliamentary elections in Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa, following the successful completion of the first two rounds in Beirut and South Lebanon. So far voter turnouts, which didn't exceed 28 percent in Beirut and 40 percent in the South.
	Saad Hariri takes on the Northern frontier Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The electoral race on the northern frontier reached its peak with Saad Hariri making a dramatic drive through the traditional strongholds of veteran politicians in Akkar and Dinnieh, and fulfilling his father's dream, blocked for so long by the Syrian intelligence services.
	Nasrallah throws weight behind list which includes LF Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) In an unprecedented move, Hizbullah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah strongly endorsed an electoral list that includes previous enemies from the Lebanese Forces (LF) and called on his supporters not to delete any candidates from the list.
	Hizbullah chief urges political 'reconciliation' in Lebanon Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Hizbullah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah called for political "reconciliation" and urged Lebanon's politicians to put "the past behind" them. Nasrallah's remarks came as he urged Shiites to support Hizbullah's decision to put up a candidate for Sunday's Mount Lebanon polls on the electoral list of Druze leader Walid Jumblatt and former foes.
6/8/2005
	Expatriates return to vote in elections Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) Due to the government's failure to establish a system that allows its expatriates to vote outside the country, many Lebanese returned - some just for a couple of hours - to take part in the country's current elections.
	Violence flares between political rivals Lebanon, Local News Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) With two rounds left to go ahead of the conclusion of Lebanon's parliamentary elections the campaign trail is becoming littered with sporadic incidents of violence between supporters of opposing parties; leaving some doubtful of slogans touting a unified nation.
	Lebanon braces for bruising election round Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon is bracing itself for what promises to be the most fiercely contested battle of its parliamentary elections this Sunday. On Sunday the Baabda-Aley district in Mount Lebanon goes to the polls in the third round of voting in elections.
6/7/2005
	Reform movement continues campaign for accountability Lebanon, Local News Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) "Serious restrictions on freedom of expression" kept newly formed political movement Hayyabina from campaigning in the South during crucial polls Sunday, according to one of the group's founders. Offering an alternative to traditional election campaigning, the small group of activists calling themselves Hayyabina.
	Hizbullah claims win is message to U.S. Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe ,Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star correspondent ) Hizbullah and its allies have won all 23 seats in South Lebanon; a landslide victory the Islamic resistance group is touting as a direct message to the international community that the Lebanese are united in their support of the party's weapons.
	Inevitable disputes postponed until after the elections Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The cancellation of Monday's sit-in at the cross roads leading to Baabda presidential palace meant that the elections continue to be a priority in the opposition's agenda, postponing inevitable disputes between components of short-lived electoral alliances until further notice.
	Political forces prepare for polls' toughest battle Lebanon, Politics Maher Zeineddine (Daily Star correspondent ) Political forces are gearing up for the third and final rounds of the parliamentary elections scheduled for June 12 and 19, in what promises to be the most heated stages of the country's polls. On Monday, a third incomplete electoral list was announced for the Bekaa's first district, Baalbek-Hermel.
	Lebanese observers: voters pressured in South polls Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) After the sweeping election victory of allied Shiite parties Hizbullah and Amal in the South of Lebanon on Sunday, conflicting reports were released by election observers with some suggesting the huge gains could have been the result of "tactics" of intimidation, and others noting no "irregularities."
	Elections give hope to Palestinian refugees Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Palestinian refugees living in squalid and overcrowded camps dare to hope the legislative elections will directly improve their lives. "I have been monitoring the elections to see if they will bring change," said Mohammad al-Daoud, 21, outside Beirut's Chatilla camp where portraits of candidates jostle those of the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
6/6/2005
	The gloves are off: Political accusations fly on all sides Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad ,Nicolas Tohme (Daily Star staff) As the North Lebanon and Mount Lebanon polls approach, fierce public accusations were exchanged between the region's major political figures on Saturday, indicating a ferocious battle ahead. bFormer Premier Omar Karami, a staunch ally of Syria, slammed slain former Premier Rafik Hariri and his son Saad.
	Jumblatt falls in with Sfeir over Lahoud Lebanon, Politics Maher Zeineddine (Daily Star correspondent ) Progressive Socialist Party president Walid Jumblatt responded to Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir's calls for reconsidering the resignation of President Emile Lahoud, saying: "We should bear the current phase to overcome the ordeal."
	Hizbullah and Amal sweep South Lebanon polls Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Two of Lebanon's pro-Syrian parties, Hizbullah, and Amal, claimed victory in South Lebanon in the first parliamentary elections free of Syrian control in three decades last night. Unofficial results showed the pair had, as widely expected, made a clean sweep of the 23 parliamentary seats up for grabs in the border area next to Israel.
	Christian community in South boycotts second round of parliamentary polls Lebanon, Politics Following in the footsteps of their brethren in Beirut, the Christian communities of the South largely boycotted the second round of parliamentary elections, with less than 10 percent participation in Jezzine, Marjayoun and Qlaya.
	Opposition fails to breach Hizbullah stronghold Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Sunday's elections in the South incorporated all the fears, arguments and disputes expected to surface following the elections among all former or future alliances and coalitions concerning many internal and external issues, with disarming Hizbullah on top of the agenda. Hizbullah desired to turn the elections in Southern Lebanon into a referendum in support of the resistance movement and against all plans to disarm its fortified division.
	Tight security as polling splits on confessional lines Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) Despite tight security across a recently liberated South Lebanon, the lack of election zest echoed last week's polls in Beirut, with only a few Christian voters were seen making their way to the polling booths, many of whom were elderly citizens.
	More campaigners than voters as Bint Jbeil goes to polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum ,Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Christian villages in the South's first electoral district of Bint Jbeil chose to boycott the electoral process on Sunday amidst a lukewarm rush of Shiite voters in other villages in the area. Marwan al-Amine, a monitor with the Lebanese Association for Democratic Elections (LADE), noted the difference in voter turnout between Christian and Muslim villages in Bint Jbeil.
	Tyre sees strong Shiite turnout with no irregularities Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri ,Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) Polling stations throughout Tyre saw the majority of residents cast their ballots for the pro-Syrian Shiite Muslim parties Amal and Hizbullah, ensuring the "steamroller" alliance a sweeping victory. The port city, situated in the South's first electoral district, witnessed a significant participation among Shiites.
	Zahrani voters back Hizbullah-Amal coalition Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) Voters turned out in large numbers in Zahrani on Sunday, for one of the most significant electoral battles in the South. The area's voters have confirmed the sweeping victory of the Hizbullah-Amal alliance, represented in Zahrani by Speaker Nabih Berri and Adel Osseiran against Communist party-backed candidates Riad Asaad and Anwar Yassin.
	Hizbullah and Amal 'steamroller' continues on its course Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe (Daily Star correspondent ) While voter turnout in Nabatieh started at a meager 11 percent in the early hours of the morning, by the end of the day 56 percent of those registered had cast their ballot, following calls for high participation from the leadership of Hizbullah and Amal. This part of the South's second constituency saw competition between 19 candidates, among whom four had already won by default due to the absence of any challengers.
6/4/2005
	South Lebanon gears up for polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's South goes to polls tomorrow in the second round of the country's parliamentary elections with an uncontested victory expected for the "steamroller" lists of Hizbullah and Amal, the two main Shiite parties in the South.
	Southern voters face limited choices Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Voters in the South will go to the ballots in the next round of the elections on Sunday tied by limited choices and facing sluggishly prearranged polls. Politicians' eyes now turn to other areas, where "real battles loaded with surprises" are being carefully prepared or being defused in Mount Lebanon, West Bekaa and the North.
	Nasrallah slams U.S. as South casts its vote Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari ,Samer Wehbe (Daily Star staff) Hizbullah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah warned today U.S. pressure on Lebanon could lead to turmoil and urged the Lebanese to unite and reject Washington's demands. Speaking during a meeting to commemorate the 16th anniversary of the death of Iran's revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, he said:
6/3/2005
	Aoun announces partial list of candidates for northern Metn Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun announced his list of candidates for the upcoming parliamentary elections in the northern Metn district, amidst the country's dismay over a car bombing that claimed the life of prominent anti-Syrian journalist Samir Kassir. During a news conference in the morning.
	Amine Gemayel demands fairer electoral law and national unity Lebanon, Politics Maroun Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) Former President Amine Gemayel stressed the need to create an electoral law that will fairly and equally represent all the Lebanese factions, also insisting that to overcome the challenges ahead, national unity is crucial.
6/2/2005
	Poll campaigns drown Lebanon in sea of posters Lebanon, Local News Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) Walking along the streets of Lebanon during election time, one is overwhelmed with huge photos and posters of candidates that are flashed in every corner, on every wall, billboard and pillar. "Even the trees are covered with those posters," said Alia Haidar, a Beirut resident who complains about how "exaggerated" those images are in their number, location and size.
	U.S. congressman says Lebanese hold their destiny in own hands Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum ,Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) U.S. Congressman Jim Kolbe said the Lebanese people have their destiny in their own hands, and it is up to them to take part in change and to hold the responsibilities that come with it. Speaking during a news conference at the American University of Beirut in the presence of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Jeffrey Feltman, the U.S.
	Dignity Bloc surprised by poll boycott Lebanon, Politics Philip Abi akl A member of the Dignity Bloc stated that the results of the elections in the capital were positive and expressed the loyalty of the Beirutis to late former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. He also rejected claims that the Future Movement and the opposition have failed to encourage the enthusiasm of the Lebanese.
	Syria denies meddling in Lebanon's elections Lebanon, Politics Syria has denied Lebanese press reports that it was directly meddling in Lebanon's May-June elections, saying a claim that three senior Syrian intelligence officers were marshalling the forces of Syria's demoralized loyalists in North Lebanon was unfounded.
	LF tells supporters a vote in elections is a vote for Geagea's release Lebanon, Politics Therese Sfeir (Daily Star staff) The Lebanese Forces urged all its partisans and friends to participate in the parliamentary elections and to vote for the liberation of its jailed leader, Samir Geagea. "The Lebanese Forces are engaging in the battle for peace; a peace based on national accord and reconciliation," the LF said in a statement.
	South gears up for second round of elections Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe ,Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) Sidon MP Bahia Hariri, sister of slain former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, stressed Wednesday that the capital of South Lebanon, Sidon, will not be turned into a battleground for settling scores.
	Mikati pleased with first round of polls held in a 'democratic and honest' manner Lebanon, Politics Nafez Qawas (Daily Star correspondent ) Premier Najib Mikati said he was satisfied with the first round of parliamentary elections "held within a democratic and honest atmosphere." Speaking during the Cabinet's weekly meeting, Mikati also praised, in the presence of Lebanese President Emile Lahoud, the role played by the Interior Ministry.
	Aoun unveils alliance as bishops slam election deals Lebanon, Politics Rita Boustani (Daily Star staff) Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun formally unveiled a political alliance with his one-time pro-Syrian rivals, in a bid to weaken leading opposition figure Walid Jumblatt in what is expected to be the main electoral battle of Lebanon's crucial polls. With much at stake in the Baabda-Aley district of Mount Lebanon.
6/1/2005
	Canadian senator says country has passed test Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The head of a Canadian team of election observers said Lebanon's parliamentary poll had "passed its first test" but has not yet completed "the whole exam." Canadian Senator Mac Harb, a naturalized Canadian of Lebanese descent, said:"This is a historic time for Lebanon with the first free elections taking place in 30 years."
	Hariri opponents encouraged by low voter turnout in Beirut Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The opposition bloc grouping the Future Movement, Qornet Shehwan Gathering and Tripoli Gathering are close to announcing their electoral list for Tripoli-Zghorta-Koura, the North's second district.
	Aoun promises to re-open fraud files after polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun said he would call for financial investigations after the conclusion of the country's parliamentary elections, and if his political allies turn out to be involved in corruption, "they will be prosecuted."
	A return to the Taif allegiances Lebanon, Politics Rosana Bou Monsef Is it a coincidence that Lebanon's political forces have readopted their positions from the Taif Accord era when the civil war was ended or is it intentional? The question is being raised in light of electoral alliances between the country's main forces at a time of U.S. pressure, confirmed by diplomatic sources, for cooperation between the Islamic camp.
	U.S. ambassador issues statement denying poll station visits Lebanon, Politics Rita Boustani (Daily Star staff) U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman denied visiting any polling stations during the first round of elections in Beirut, stressing that reports in the media to that extent were false. In a harsh statement, the U.S. Embassy criticized Lebanese officials who had condemned Feltman's alleged interference in the polls when he visited polling stations.
	Wanted: Politicians with vision Lebanon, Business Osama Habib (Daily Star staff) It has become common practice among ambitious Lebanese politicians to talk about the size of the public debt, high unemployment rates, corruption and the poor state of the economy a few days before parliamentary elections. Politicians underline the need to create more jobs, reduce the budget deficit and increase foreign direct investment.
	Hizbullah flexes military muscles as polls arrive Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) As Lebanon's first free polls in 30 years kicked off last Sunday, the powerful Shiite resistance group Hizbullah was flexing its military muscle and vowing to fight on against Israel as its crucial electoral battle approaches on June 5.
	South torn on rival candidates during elections Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) Preparations for parliamentary elections in the South's predominantly Shiite areas of Tyre and Bint Jbeil are gaining momentum as voters get ready to cast their ballots Sunday. But perhaps the largest factor affecting elections in South Lebanon's first district is not the abundance of candidates but the introduction of rival candidates loyal to two resistance.
	Hizbullah set to strike deal with Jumblatt Lebanon, Politics Mayssam Zaaroura (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's pro-Syrian resistance group Hizbullah looks set to seal an electoral alliance with opposition Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, a move that leaves Jumblatt the favorite to win the most crucial electoral district in Lebanon. The Baabda-Aley district in Mount Lebanon, the most keenly contested constituency in the country.
5/31/2005
	Lebanon's markets unmoved by Beirut elections Lebanon, Business Will Rasmussen (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's financial sector was largely unmoved by Sunday's election, with the pound continuing a positive trend and the stock market dipping slightly. "The results of the election have already been discounted by the market," said a local currency dealer. "That's why nothing has changed." The pound was trading at 1,510 to the U.S. dollar.
	No surprises expected in the next round of parliamentary elections Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) The second round of the parliamentary elections, which will be held on Sunday in South Lebanon, is expected to run as smoothly as that held in Beirut, considering that the Amal-Hizbullah alliance is assured the 23 seats.
	EU monitors praise first round of polls Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) Lebanon's first round of parliamentary polls in Beirut was held in a "calm and orderly manner," according to the head of a European Union-led observation mission tasked with monitoring the country's elections.
	Aoun rubbishes Hariri victory claiming campaign spending a deciding factor Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun discounted Saad Hariri's absolute victory of all of Beirut's parliamentary seats, claiming citizens in the capital were "driven" during the elections. Speaking to reporters at his home in Rabieh, east of Beirut, the former army commander recently returned from 15 years of exile in France said the polls in Beirut.
	Jumblatt defends uncontested wins Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe (Daily Star correspondent ) Chouf MP Walid Jumblatt said that the uncontested victory of some candidates was not a Lebanese specificity, explaining that it existed even in the United States. Speaking after a meeting with Speaker Nabih Berri on Monday, Jumblatt said:
	Lahoud blames low turnout on 2000 law he helped create Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf ,Khalil Fleihan (Daily Star staff) President Emile Lahoud criticized the low turnout of voters to the crucial polls on Sunday, laying the blame squarely on the "unfair electoral law" of 2000. After meeting with the EU observation team monitoring the elections, Lahoud said:
	Beirut polls leave some with sour taste Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) While Saad Hariri's clean sweep of all 19 seats in Beirut didn't come as much of a surprise to the majority of Beirutis, it has left some with a sour taste in their mouths. Mohammad Basiri, 45, said: "It wasn't much of an election as it was just one plate being served; Hariri sprinkled with what would seem to be a representative group of spices."
	How to deal with an inept political class? Lebanon, Politics Hanna Anbar ,Michael Glackin (Daily Star staff) Oh dear. Just four months after Lebanon's people electrified the world and toppled a government; less than five weeks after the last Syrian soldier left Lebanon, we have finally discovered it wasn't just an inept government that Lebanese people had to deal with, it was an inept political class.
5/30/2005
	Security tight for first phase of crucial Lebanon elections Lebanon, Local News Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) On Sunday morning, Beirut resembled a giant barricade with security tight across the capital for the first phase of the four-round elections. However, after four hours of voting, barely one in 10 voters had cast their ballot despite opposition calls for a high turnout. "For me, this day will concretize all what we demonstrated for on March 14 in Martyrs'
	Sunnis turn out in numbers to cast ballots Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri ,Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) Lebanon's parliamentary elections kicked off in Beirut with varying participation from the capital's second district voters, and Sunni neighborhoods seeing the highest voter turnout. The second district includes the Mosseitebeh area where more than 50 percent of Sunni voters participated.
	Christians vote to stay at home Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Elections in Beirut's first district were a letdown for many, with most of Achrafieh's Christians abstaining from the process and shy participation by the Muslim neighborhood of Mazraa.
	Third district elections go 'smoothly' despite absence of voters Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal ,Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Beirut's third district polling stations lacked the participation of groups known to be abstaining from the elections, while other stations received a rush of voters early in the morning, trickling down to just a handful by the end of the day.
	First round of voting exposes Hariri's weakness Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) All eyes were on Beirut, where the much anticipated first round of parliamentary elections were under way, with particular attention being paid to voter turnout and the potential emergence of any vulnerability in Saad Hariri's seemingly absolute dominance.
	Lebanon on security alert during polls Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) Interior and Municipalities Minister Hassan Sabaa said the ministry stands at equal distance from every candidate and will fulfill its role of providing an good election climate to ensure the process meets Lebanese expectations.
	Hariri makes clean sweep in Beirut polls Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's Saad Hariri, the son of the country's assassinated former Premier, made a clean sweep in the first stage of the country's elections according to preliminary results. But the start of Lebanon's first free elections in more than 30 years was marred by a very low voter turnout of just 28 percent.
5/28/2005
	Saad Hariri: victory in the bag Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) Saad Hariri, son of slain former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, is expected to record an overwhelming victory in the first polls in Lebanon in three decades to take place without the presence of Syrian troops.
	Campaign U-turns continue to rattle polls Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) With voting day mere hours away for the capital's three districts, excitement is starting to build in the rest of the country as the expected landslide victory for a united opposition has vanished and left a tightly contested battle, particularly among Christian parties.
	Lebanon gets ready for 'free' election Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's most eagerly awaited parliamentary election in years kicks off in Beirut tomorrow. The polls, billed as Lebanon's first free elections in more than 30 years, are taking place just one month after the withdrawal of Syrian troops who occupied the country in 1976, shortly after the outbreak of the Lebanese civil war the year before.
5/27/2005
	Lebanon's industrialists demand economic program from politicians during election Lebanon, Business The country is supposed to be in living "election fever." Photographs of politicians litter our streets. We see elections "lists" being formed and alliances being made. We are experiencing a unique form of democracy. Our democracy is "Made in Lebanon," but it is a product I am not so proud of. In principal I am always calling.
	LF rally stresses importance of 'fair' electoral law Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) During a rally held at Mina Jbeil Square in honor of their imprisoned leader, the Lebanese Forces said Thursday the legitimacy of Parliament will remain at stake until it implements a fair electoral law.
	The real election battle will be in Mount Lebanon Lebanon, Politics Zeina Abu Rizk With elections set to begin in Beirut on Sunday, eyes are already turned to the next round in Mount Lebanon, likely to be decisive on more than one level. Some describe this battle as a healthy electoral race under a democratic system; others see in it the opposition's failure to unite. But all agree elections in the various regions of Mount Lebanon are the only "tasty" races of the entire electoral process.
	Alliances and candidate lists gel in final days of campaign Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Saad Hariri reiterated his commitment to Druze leader Walid Jumblatt Thursday, while Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun seemed poised to announce his own coalition in Mount Lebanon.
	Nasrallah reveals Hizbullah's strategy of political alliance Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) During his Liberation Day speech in Bint Jbeil, Hizbullah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah insisted his party's electoral alliances would only become long term political alliances if they were committed to "protecting the resistance and safeguarding its arms."
	Israel dismisses Hizbullah threats as election gambit while Iran lauds group Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) Hizbullah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah's pledge to defend his group's arms "to the death" and surprise detailed description of his group's arsenal was met with dismissal by Israel. The Jewish state saw Nasrallah's threats that the resistance can strike the state with "at least 12,000" rockets.
5/26/2005
	Opposition united despite FPM spat Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's opposition refused Wednesday to portray the failure of reaching an electoral alliance with Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement as a rift within its ranks. The opposition, united - except for the leader of the FPM - is supposed to contest the elections with unified lists almost throughout Lebanon.
	Muslim scholars urge national unity, coexistence and election participation Lebanon, Politics Therese Sfeir (Daily Star staff) Muslim Scholars and muftis stressed Wednesday the need to promote national unity and coexistence and urged the Lebanese people to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections in order to build a modern country.
5/25/2005
	'Lebanon set to recover from near-zero growth' Lebanon, Business Will Rasmussen (Daily Star staff) Lebanon is "on the eve of a historic reform opportunity" which could boost foreign investment and shave the public debt to 130 percent of GDP in four years - down from around 180 percent today. A report released by Bank Audi-Saradar said Lebanon's successful weathering of a rush on foreign reserves.
	Election project for disabled makes voting easier Lebanon, Politics Jessy Chahine (Daily Star staff) Thanks to "Hakki," a new election project organized by the Lebanese Physical Handicapped Union (LPHU) and Youth Association for the Blind (YAB), those with physical disabilities will find it much easier to cast their ballots in the upcoming polls.
	Berri calls for high voter turnout in South Lebanon, Politics Rita Boustani (Daily Star staff) With less than one week to go until the first round of elections are held in Beirut, local and international officials weighed in to offer their support to the upcoming parliamentary elections. Speaker Nabih Berri called for a high voter turnout in the South to allow the area's residents to show their unity and support to the resistance parties.
	Alliance talks between FPM and Jumblatt fail Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The negotiations between Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) and Walid Jumblatt have failed, meaning an electoral battle is now under way in Mount Lebanon, especially Baabda where Aoun believes he controls five out of six seats and in Aley where the results will be determined by the ballot box.
	Lebanon affirms support for resistance Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the secretary general of the Lebanese resistance group Hizbullah met Tuesday with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati at Hizbullah's headquarters in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
	Local election monitoring organizations demand more accountability Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) Local election monitoring organizations called Tuesday for the creation of a committee of legal officials, media and civil society representatives to ensure accountability during and after the polls. The call came during a news conference held by the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS) and the Lebanese Transparency Association - No Corruption (LTA).
	Lebanon's opposition splits as polling day approaches Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's political opposition, whose unity impressed the world after it forced Syria to end its the 29 year occupation, has split just days before the country's crucial parliamentary elections. Michel Aoun, the country's former army commander and one time prime minister, announced his Free Patriotic Movement will field its own candidates.
5/24/2005
	Former Hizbullah chief breaks cover to denounce elections Lebanon, Politics Morshed al-Ali (Daily Star correspondent ) Former Hizbullah Secretary General Sheikh Sobhi Tufeili warned in a rare appearance Monday that elections starting Sunday will be "fraudulent and dishonest." Speaking to reporters at Ain Bourday near Baalbek amid tight security measures, Tufeili, who is wanted by authorities for threatening national security through a civil disobedience campaign, announced he will boycott upcoming elections.
	Husseini angles to replace Berri as speaker Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) In the Baalbek-Hermel district, the formation of the Baath Party's electoral lists are facing new complications as the group's political bureau is split over who to name as candidates in the Hizbullah-dominated area.
	Hizbullah looks set to increase its power in upcoming elections Lebanon, Local News Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The Lebanese resistance group Hizbullah seems assured of an easy path to victory, while most Lebanese parties are exerting intense efforts to strengthen their bases of support ahead of the May-June parliamentary elections.
	UN election monitors continue political rounds Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) The head of the UN's Electoral Assistance Division, Carina Perelli, continued to visit religious and political figures as part of her monitoring mission. In a meeting with Tashnag Party officials, Perelli discussed the importance of transparency and true representation and the party's proposals concerning the new electoral law.
	Lebanon's opposition remain divided over election alliances Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) With less than a week to polling day, Lebanon's political opposition remains hopelessly divided over whether it will join forces to fight this month's crucial elections. Despite a late night meeting between Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement and representatives of Druze leader Walid Jumblatt and Future Movement head Saad Hariri.
5/23/2005
	Future Movement makes life hard for aspiring candidates Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) The boycott of elections in the North by political groups such as Al-Jamaa al-Islamiya and by prominent figures such as Akkar MP Issam Fares and former Premier Omar Karami paint a gloomy picture for Zghorta MP Suleiman Franjieh and Akkar MP Mikhael Daher who are up against the powerful Future Movement's alliance.
	Interior Ministry issues guidelines for voting Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) The Interior Ministry reminded voters of the key legal guidelines that need to be observed during the upcoming elections to ensure they are held in a transparent manner. A statement Saturday said the voting process will start at 7 a.m. on election day and end at 6 p.m., adding that the head of the polling station will be assisted by a clerk and four assistants.
	Lebanese Forces hold electoral rally in Koura Lebanon, Politics Nicolas Tohme (Daily Star correspondent ) The disbanded Lebanese Forces organized an electoral rally on Sunday in Kfar Hazir in Koura in the presence of Strida Geagea, wife of jailed Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea. The rally was also attended by opposition MPs Farid Makari, Nayla Mouawad and Mosbah Ahdab and former minister Samir Jisr.
	Aoun-Jumblatt alliance unlikely in Lebanon polls Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) With less than a week left to go before the start of the first leg of Lebanon's Parliamentary elections, the electoral alliance between leader of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) Michel Aoun and leader of the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) Walid Jumblatt appears to have disintegrated into shambles.
5/21/2005
	MPs boycott elections and condemn foreign meddling Lebanon, Politics Nicolas Tohme ,Samer Wehbe (Daily Star correspondent ) Tyre MP Abdel-Hamid Beydoun announced Friday he will boycott the parliamentary elections in South Lebanon on June 5, claiming "they are not elections but rather designations prepared by the troika of the U.S., French and Saudi ambassadors."
	Qabbani chairs meeting of poll magistrates Lebanon, Politics Karine Raad (Daily Star staff) Justice Minister Khaled Qabbani chaired a meeting Friday for the 100 magistrates who will head the planning committees in the upcoming parliamentary elections in Beirut and South Lebanon. On hand were Justice Ministry director-general Magistrate Omar Natour, ministry official Nada Kasti, Interior Ministry director-general Atallah Ghasham.
	Fierce election battles shape up in the North, Metn, West Bekaa Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) As election day draws closer, the electoral battle is expected to be fierce in North Lebanon, the Metn and the Western Bekaa. With the bloc of slain former Premier Rafik Hariri set to win all the seats in the capital and the Hizbullah-Amal coalition those of South Lebanon, there is unlikely to be much of an electoral battle in Beirut and South Lebanon.
	FPM hinges pact with opposition to agreement on election lists Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's increasingly confusing electoral scene took another dramatic turn with the news that Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Party will break away from its opposition allies unless they reach an agreement on sharing parliamentary lists in the next 24 hours.
	Mikati is busy making post-election plans Lebanon, Politics Walid Choucair Preparations are in full swing for the post-election period, despite the fact their outcome has yet to be determined in areas such as Mount Lebanon, the North and parts of the Bekaa, due to ongoing negotiations between the Future Movement, Democratic Gathering, the Free Patriotic Movement and the Qornet Shehwan Gathering.
	Lawyer calls to boycott polls to spur Geagea's release Lebanon, Politics Maroun Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) The attorney representing disbanded Lebanese Forces (LF) leader Samir Geagea said the only way to ensure the release of his client from prison before the May-June parliamentary elections is for LF candidates to boycott the elections unless Geagea is released.
	Pirelli assures Qabalan that UN team will not observe polls Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Carina Pirelli, head of the UN Electoral Assistance division, said Friday it is up to the UN General Assembly to vote on sending a mission to observe Lebanon's parliamentary elections. Pirelli currently heads a UN team which will aid the Lebanese government through coordinating with EU observers.
	Lebanese harbor mixed feelings for elections Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) With parliamentary elections just around the corner, voters should be gearing up to cast their ballots by registering and filling out the necessary forms for their voter's card. However, both tasks are something many haven't yet done, and something some won't be doing at all.
	Karami quits election race Lebanon, Politics Lebanon's former Prime Minister and Tripoli MP Omar Karami announced late last night that he was stepping out of this month's election race. The abrupt announcement, was made during a television interview. He said: "The elections aren't elections, they are simply appointments and I want no part of them."
5/20/2005
	'Electoral democracy' doubted Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Aley parliamentary candidate Hayat Arslan believes that with nine candidates having already won uncontested parliamentary seats before the electoral battle has even begun, "electoral democracy is lacking."
	U.K. envoy confident of Lebanon's future Lebanon, Politics Maroun Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) British Ambassador James Watt met with Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir Thursday and reiterated his government's that hope Lebanon would benefit from the upcoming parliamentary elections in a bid to revive its democratic institutions and proceed to modernization and reform.
	Major difficulties lay in wait for the president Lebanon, Politics Zeina Abu Rizk While the country is immersed in election preparations, attention is shifting toward the fate of the presidency after the polls: Will President Emile Lahoud stay in office? Will he step down independently or will he be asked to resign?
	Aoun says Hariri, Jumblatt have 'closed the door' on alliance Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Michel Aoun declared Thursday the Hariri-Jumblatt coalition had "closed the door, but not locked it" in their electoral negotiations, meaning the Free Patriotic Movement leader was not invited to join the coalition yet, but nor has he been given a chance to seek alliances elsewhere.
	U.S. mulls resolution on Lebanese elections and sovereignty Lebanon, Politics Urging the withdrawal of all Syrian forces from Lebanon, support for free and fair democratic elections in Lebanon, and the development of democratic institutions and safeguards to foster sovereign democratic rule in Lebanon. Whereas the people of Lebanese have a rich, proud and honorable history dating from ancient times to the present.
	Canada to send election observers to Beirut Lebanon, Politics Canada announced Thursday it will send 20 observers to monitor Lebanon's parliamentary elections. Ten Canadian observers will join the European Union Electoral Observation Mission, and a further 10 will form an independent Canadian mission tasked with observing only the first round of the elections in Beirut, on May 29.
	Makdessi to run for Catholic seat Lebanon, Politics Talal Makdessi declared Thursday he is going to run as an independent candidate in the parliamentary elections for the Catholic seat in the district of Baalbek-Hermel to ensure "a true and complete national unity." Makdessi presented his main development plans for the district of Baalbek-Hermel in a statement issued.
	U.S. sees polls as path to Lebanese independence Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Washington said Lebanon's upcoming parliamentary elections were an opportunity for the country to "recover its independence." Jeffrey Feltman, the U.S. ambassador to Lebanon, urged politicians from all confessions to take part in the elections. He said: "We are aware that there are many subjects of disagreement.
5/19/2005
	Amnesty International wants human rights in election spotlight Lebanon, Local News Rym Ghazal (Special to The Daily Star) As the country prepares for the upcoming Parliamentary elections, Amnesty International is suggesting adding a human rights bulletin to each candidate's final agenda, a first for Lebanese elections.
	Electoral alliances likely to crumble after polls Lebanon, Politics Electoral alliances signed by political forces in some parts of the country and the creation of unified electoral lists represent nothing more than temporary alliances for electoral purposes. Such coalitions are unlikely to develop into political alliances after the parliamentary elections, and the post election period will witness a significant modification.
	Backers and opponents wait for Aoun to make his move Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) In an environment rife with "bargaining and phony alliances," former army commander General Michel Aoun claims to be the only politician who "insists on sticking to principles" and "refuses to make alliances simply for electoral purposes."
	Aoun criticizes opposition allies as 'seasonal' Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Free Patriotic Movement leader General Michel Aoun criticized fellow opposition leaders in the Muslim camp for bowing to the government's terms for elections this month, in an interview with AFP.
	Mikati vows to ensure best election climate Lebanon, Politics Morshed al-Ali ,Mohammed Zaatari (Special to The Daily Star) Prime Minister Najib Mikati reiterated Lebanon's willingness to cooperate with various international organizations and bodies and civil society institutions to ensure the best climate for elections. Speaking to the director of the UN's Electoral Assistance Division, Carina Perelli, on Wednesday, Mikati hoped turnout on election.
	Feltman confident of Lebanese media freedom in polls Lebanon, Politics (Daily Star staff) U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman has expressed his confidence in the ability of the Lebanese media to use its freedom appropriately during the upcoming parliamentary elections. Speaking during a visit to Murr Television, Feltman said the visit was aimed at proving U.S. support for the freedom of expression and the freedom of the media throughout the world.
	Christian politicians urge youths to take part in polls Lebanon, Politics Nada Bakri (Special to The Daily Star) Various Christian politicians urged Lebanese youths and civil-society sectors to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections to reform Lebanon and help it realize its sovereignty, freedom and independence.
	Aoun visits Geagea and calls for his release Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) In the latest reconciliation between Lebanese war foes, Free Patriotic Movement leader, Michel Aoun, visited Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea in his prison cell yesterday and called for a full amnesty for his onetime enemy. The encounter between the two men, the first in over 15 years, is indicative of the political change in Lebanon.
5/18/2005
	Hizbullah denies seeking stronger position in South Lebanon, Politics Mayssam Zaaroura (Daily Star staff) Hizbullah denied reports it was seeking to strengthen its presence along the border with Israel, saying the resistance group's presence was always dependent on Israel's actions. The responsible Hizbullah officer for Southern Lebanon, Hassan Ezzeddine told The Daily Star Tuesday that Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz's warning regarding an increase in Hizbullah's presence on the border was insignificant.
	Franjieh: Ex-Syrian allies switched sides Lebanon, Politics Maroun Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) Zghorta MP Suleiman Franjieh accused the Future Movement and the Progressive Socialist Party of turning against Syria only after Damascus began working against their interests. Speaking Tuesday after a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir, Franjieh, a staunch ally of Syria, said:
	'Powerless' candidates set to take on dominant lists Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul Former Premier Omar Karami, Zghorta MP Suleiman Franjieh, General Michel Aoun and many other Lebanese politicians all seem "powerless" in face of the present electoral alliances: Amal with Hizbulllah, and Saad Hariri's Future Movement with Walid Jumblatt's Progressive Socialist Party. Described as "bulldozers" by the Lebanese public, these alliances, created collectively or separately.
	UN team wraps up mission to provide election assistance Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) The UN team dispatched to aid the government's coordination with European Union election observers wrapped up its mission Wednesday, amidst the country's preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections.
	EU team set to monitor media fairness Lebanon, Politics Rym Ghazal (Daily Star staff) As the usual master of highlights, it is the media's turn to be in the spotlight and stand accountable for their part in the upcoming elections. "All forms of media will be monitored to check if all the candidates running in the elections get equal access to the media," said a media expert, who preferred to remain nameless, from the EU Election Observation Mission team in a phone interview with *The Daily Star.*
	NGOs discuss ways to promote fair vote Lebanon, Politics Raed El Rafei (Special to The Daily Star) With parliamentary elections to begin in less than two weeks, Lebanese non-governmental organizations are boosting efforts to promote a free and democratic electoral process. Accordingly, the Lebanese Transparency Association - No Corruption and the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS) are organizing a program titled "Transparency, Accountability and Integrity in the 2005 Elections."
	Parliament needs fair election law: Qabalan Lebanon, Politics Therese Sfeir (Daily Star staff) The vice president of the Higher Shiite Council said Tuesday that the new Parliament should work for an electoral law that offers a fair representation to all Lebanese factions. Following a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman, Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan said the best electoral law would be based.
	Christian opposition to run in elections despite 'unfair law' Lebanon, Politics Majdoline Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's Christian opposition said it will contest the country's elections despite their insistence that the election process discriminates against Christians. The opposition finally quelled speculation that it would boycott this month's polls following a meeting of its Qornet Shehwan Gathering under the aegis of Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir.
5/17/2005
	Palestinian FM plans Beirut visit after elections Lebanon, Politics Mohammed Zaatari (Daily Star staff) Palestinian Foreign Minister Nasser Qadwa will visit Beirut after parliamentary elections are held here to discuss Palestinians' civil rights, and their possession of weapons. According to a Palestinian source, Qadwa has clear instructions not to interfere in Lebanese internal affairs and to find a final solution to the issue of the weapons in the country's refugee camps.
	U.S. ready to assist new government Lebanon, Politics Mansour Khoury (Daily Star correspondent ) U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman announced Monday that the United States stands ready to assist the new Parliament and Cabinet that emerge from the upcoming parliamentary elections as they work to address Lebanon's needs and serve as credible representatives of all of Lebanon's population.
	Hariri predicts landslide opposition victory in two weeks time Lebanon, Politics Agence France Presse (AFP) Saad Hariri, the son of slain former Premier Rafik Hariri, predicted Monday that the anti-Syrian opposition generated from the February 14 bomb blast would win a landslide in the upcoming parliamentary polls.
5/16/2005
	Disabled declare their candidacy for elections Lebanon, Politics Leila Hatoum (Daily Star staff) Three disabled Lebanese declared their candidacy in this month's parliamentary elections in an attempt to shed light on disabled people's problems here and provide them with the necessary support on an official level.
	Hariri announces powerhouse Beirut list Lebanon, Politics Nayla Assaf (Daily Star staff) Following weeks of uncertainty, Saad Hariri finally announced his list to the parliamentary elections in Beirut Sunday, after Beirut MP Ghattas Khoury stepped down from the race in favor of Solange Gemayel.
	Berri re-allies with Hizbullah for upcoming elections Lebanon, Politics Samer Wehbe (Daily Star correspondent ) Speaker Nabih Berri announced the names on his electoral list over the weekend, stressing the new Parliament and government "will stand up to the challenges facing Lebanon's coexistence."
	Lebanon's parliamentary polls kick off with three uncontested seats in Beirut Lebanon, Politics Adnan El-Ghoul (Daily Star staff) Lebanon's parliamentary elections kicked off ahead of schedule over the weekend as three uncontested seats in Beirut returned Druze, Shiite and Maronite MPs ahead of official polls which begin in less than two weeks. Solange Gemayel, the widow of slain president and Christian warlord Bashir Gemayel, was given Beirut's only Maronite.

Candidates & Results


	Beirut: 29/05
	South Lebanon: 05/06
	Mount Lebanon: 12/06
	Bekaa: 12/06
	North: 19/06

Elections Law 2000