PHOTO: Demonstrators on Saturday night in Beirut’s Martyr’s Square
Tens of thousands of protesters returned to the streets of Lebanon’s capital Beirut on Saturday, condemning political paralysis, mismanagement, and corruption.
The “You Stink” campaign launched mass demonstrations last weekend. The catalyst was a garbage crisis, after the city’s waste management was halted last month, but the protests have focused on the shortcomings of the coalition Government and the Lebanese political system.
The country has not had a President for more than a year. Parliament has extended its terms twice, but MPs have refused to meet because of the absence of an Executive.
The “You StinK” campaign is calling for the resignation of the Environment Minister, Parliamentary elections, and better public services amid daily electricity cuts and summer water shortages.
Saturday’s protest was mainly peaceful, with only 10 arrests. Lebanese authorities claimed two policemen were injured.
Last week’s demonstrations ended in clashes after police fired tear gas and water cannons and shot into the air. One protesters was killed and hundreds of people were wounded.
Prime Minister Tammam Salem promised an emergency Cabinet meeting to deal with the crisis, but amid continued disputes within the coalition, it was never convened.
See Lebanon Feature: 1 Dead, 400+ Injured in Beirut Clashes Amid “You Stink” Protests
On Saturday, families and people of all ages marched, played music, and sang in areas around Martyrs’ Square. The upbeat atmosphere continued into the night as soldiers watched from newly-erected barricades.
Groups chanted, “People want the downfall of the regime”, and condemned all politicians. One protester held aloft a sign with pictures of leaders of six main factions: “We will not elect you again, and all of you means all of you.”
Another sign read: “You failed in running the country, you failed in running worship, you succeeded at theft and corruption.”