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Let’s stop with the poetry! When they mention the military, politicians come up with words filled with graceful poetry and rhetoric… But how does this translate into actions? Yesterday, on the occasion of Army Day, we read and heard plenty of poetics. What is truly the point of it all?
Since the war ended, the political authority has not treated the military the way it should have properly done. In fact, it has strived to exploit this institution, rather than backing it up. Consequently, there have been numerous attempts to reduce its support and cut back on the Lebanese officers’ benefits.
The relationship between Lebanese politicians and the military command was primarily based on the extent to which the army command responded to their requests, be it regarding military formations, escorts, firearms licenses, and other services that politicians could benefit from, both for electoral and personal purposes.
Once the war ended, only one commander in chief was able to break this pattern. When questioned about his relationship with certain politicians, Joseph Aoun reiterates the same few words: “The less politicians interfere in the army’s affairs, the greater the chance for me to make them my friends. The more they meddle and interfere in our institution, the more I oppose their stance.”
What is even more unusual, is to watch some politicians praise the army commander without obtaining any favor in return. One MP spoke of a visit he had with the army’s commander in chief during which he congratulated him, expressed his support in the presidential elections, and went as far as confirming his ongoing financial support to the military institution. Once the visit was over, and the MP was ready to leave Aoun’s office in Yarzeh, the parliamentarian requested his approval for a military transfer. Aoun turned it down, saying that politicians shouldn’t meddle with the army.
Many similar stories bolster our trust in General Joseph Aoun at a time when we have lost faith in many politicians. Amidst the most challenging security, political, and social context, Joseph Aoun’s achievements as army commander in chief should be usefully put to use in the current vacant position of head of State.
Even though he has not publicly expressed his wish to run for the presidential election, Aoun – unlike any other candidate – has proven his worth and shone at the helm of the military institution. We have witnessed his achievements off-hand. As such, he doesn’t need to be put to any kind of test.
Therefore, for a change, maybe our PMs should stop their poetics about the army and, instead, they ought to turn their empty words into useful electoral votes and endorse Joseph Aoun as President of the Republic.
In addition to being backed by Arab countries, Aoun is well-respected at the national level. He has passed the test with flying colors. He genuinely embodies the one leader who can save the country from its politicians, especially those who like to incorporate the army into their poetry for personal objectives and interests.
Long live the army. We say it wholeheartedly. And hats off to General Joseph Aoun.
