The Union of Associations of Baalbek-Hermel, along with several NGOs assisting displaced people, has voiced opposition to transferring displacement aid to the Council for the South, citing concerns over corruption.
In a statement, the union pointed to what it described as the council’s poor track record over the past two decades, arguing that aid distribution during previous conflicts largely benefited political patronage networks rather than displaced families.
The council—an official body often associated with the Amal Movement and Hezbollah—is now facing criticism even within predominantly Shiite areas such as Baalbek-Hermel Governorate.
The union also stressed that Lebanon “has a new government and a new mandate,” emphasizing that responsibility for aiding displaced populations lies with the Higher Relief Commission and the Disaster Management Unit, in coordination with local authorities and civil society.
It called on President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to reject any transfer of aid to the council, underscoring the need for transparent distribution free from political or social exploitation.
The statement concluded by expressing confidence in the Disaster Management Unit and the Ministry of Social Affairs, praising their efforts to deliver assistance to shelters across the governorate.
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