Tens of women and civil NGOs organise a sit-in to denounce and reject violence and civil strife

A large number of women and civil society organisations held a sit-in at the museum yesterday calling for “Lebanese families and youth to unite” and reject violence and civil strife.  The protesters launched an appeal on behalf of all mothers in Lebanon calling on politicians to overcome their differences.  Protesters held banners denouncing the abysmal situation in the country and reaffirming their commitment to tolerance and conviviality.
The former president of the Lebanese Women Council, Ms. Linda Matar, called on young women and men as well as on all members of civil society to challenge all those who are feeding into confessional and civil strife.  She noted that together we can impose a democratic system and we can impose a new cabinet who would be concerned in addressing livelihood issues as well as ensuring safety and security.  She also noted that together we can bring about a modern, fair and non-confessional electoral system.
The current president of the Lebanese Women Council, Jamal Hermez, called on the Lebanese to be responsible for their own destiny since politicians have failed given their own hidden allegiances and interests.  She added that the unity of the Lebanese is the only way to overcome the current situation.  The coordinator of Patriotic Allegiance Movement, Princess Hayat Irslan said that those present are the voice of truth, moderation and objectivity which are the basis of real citizenship and who know what is the road to salvation namely through a responsible cabinet and a new electoral law which will bring in a new political class beyond the boundaries of geographical and historical injustice.
Source: Al-Mustaqbal, Al-Diyar 9 January 2014