Lebanon: Security Council urges speedy election amid presidential vacuum

29 May 2014 – The Security Council today voiced its disappointment and concern that the election for a new Lebanese President has not taken place within the constitutional timeframe.

"The Council urges the Parliament to uphold Lebanon's longstanding democratic tradition and to work to ensure that presidential elections take place as soon as possible and without external interference," the 15-member body said in a presidential statement.

The term of the current head of State, Michel Sleiman, ended on 25 May, and the Lebanese Constitution specifies that Parliament must convene to elect a new leader before the deadline passes.

The Council paid tribute to the work carried out by Mr. Sleiman, who served for six years, and reiterated its full support for the Government to discharge its duties during this interim period "in accordance with the Constitution," until the election of the new president.

It also looked forward to the continued engagement of the Lebanese authorities with the international community, particularly the International Support Group for Lebanon, to mobilize support for the country.

Last Sunday, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced his regret that the Parliament was unable to elect a new president and called on Lebanon's leaders to select a new one "without delay."