Polling stations closed at 7 PM Sunday in the second phase of Lebanon’s municipal and local elections, held across North Lebanon and Akkar Governorate. Ballot counting began immediately after the close.
The Interior Ministry announced the final voter turnout across the two governorates as follows: Tripoli (25.04%), Zgharta (38.77%), Bsharri (32.03%), Minieh-Dennieh (49.96%), Koura (38.92%), and Batroun (48.26%).
North Lebanon recorded 614,295 registered voters, with 220,562 casting ballots—a turnout of 35.90%.
In Akkar, 139,363 of 294,647 voters participated, reflecting a higher turnout of 47.30%.
Interior Minister: Security Forces Responded Promptly to Incidents
Speaking to reporters shortly before polls closed, Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar said the number of election-related incidents exceeded the official complaints filed. These ranged from administrative to security issues, with rapid intervention by security forces in coordination with the army.
He attributed many disturbances to supporters trying to protect their candidates and urged the public to remain calm and responsible during the vote count.
🇱🇧 Lebanese PM Nawaf Salam monitors the vote count from the Interior Ministry’s operations room after polls close, joined by Deputy PM Tarek Mitri#Lebanon #elections #عكار #طرابلس pic.twitter.com/t1Qv4A1nIF
— ManarWeb (@WebManar) May 11, 2025
Tripoli Turnout and Alleged Violations
Commenting on the low turnout in Tripoli, Al-Hajjar noted that the number of candidate lists was significant and that the city saw some electoral activity late in the day. He stressed that this election is crucial for reinforcing the authority of the state and advancing development.
Regarding allegations of vote buying, Al-Hajjar confirmed that security agencies had detained individuals in two confirmed cases and that broader investigations are underway.
Staff Absences Addressed
On reports of missing election staff, the minister cited reasons including reluctance, travel difficulty, and low financial compensation. He said replacements were secured and expressed hope for full staff commitment in the remaining election phases in Beirut, the South, and the Bekaa.
Source: Al-Manar Website
