Friday, April 06, 2012

UN official says concerned over assassination attempt against Lebanese politician.

BEIRUT, April 5 (Xinhua) -- UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Derek Plumbly on Thursday voiced concern over the reported assassination attempt against the Lebanese Forces party leader after meeting with Lebanese Interior Minister Marwan Charbel.
"I expressed my concern about the reported attempt yesterday ( Wednesday) on Mr. Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces party. Thankfully, nobody was injured," Plumbly told reporters, according to the state-run National News Agency.
"But the incident underlines the need for vigilance. It is important that the investigation now (take) its course and that all sides in Lebanon continue to exert every effort to ensure that the situation remains secure and stable," he said.
Geagea had told a news conference on Wednesday about the assassination attempt against him when assaulters opened fire at his residence, raising fear of a possible resumption of the series of assassinations began in late 2004 and had lasted for several years.
The UN coordinator discussed with the Lebanese minister also the general security situation in the country and the preparations for the upcoming legislative elections. Plumbly praised the work of Lebanese security forces have done in protecting Lebanon and ensuring public safety amid regional turmoil.