The third round of Lebanon’s municipal and mayoral elections is set to take place this Sunday in the Baalbek-Hermel governorate, as an increasing number of municipalities are witnessing uncontested races.
So far, 16 municipalities have already won uncontested, with that number potentially reaching 30.
The elections in most areas are expected to take place within a familial framework, in the absence of a strong opposition presence. As such, the electoral process remains firmly under the umbrella of the “resistance” political axis.
The long-standing alliance between Hezbollah and the Amal Movement remains intact, with room for cooperation with local partners depending on the particularities of each town.
National Duo’s Approach
The Hezbollah-Amal alliance has adopted a three-tiered strategy: first, seeking an uncontested win, followed by a negotiated agreement, and if both fail, defaulting to familial competition—an approach intended to respect the social cohesion of local communities.
In an interview with the Al-Manar website, MP Dr. Hussein Hajj Hasan, head of the Baalbek-Hermel Alliance, emphasized the success of municipalities managed or supported by Hezbollah-aligned figures.
He pointed to the party’s long-established municipal affairs unit, which supports local councils, enhances their administrative and human capacity, and ensures oversight to improve performance.
MP Hajj Hasan noted that Hezbollah’s role goes beyond organizational support, actively engaging in development efforts via government officials, international organizations, and even direct party funding—especially critical amid Lebanon’s financial collapse and dwindling municipal budgets.
“In the most difficult periods, Hezbollah injected funding to support local councils—covering development projects and operational expenses like fuel and electricity. Any identified shortcomings are promptly and seriously addressed, with ongoing oversight of all municipal and service-related files,” Hajj Hassan said.
Elections Within the Resistance Fold
Hajj Hasan stressed that the “resistance environment” remains deeply committed to its political path, consistently honoring the sacrifices of its leaders and martyrs. This commitment is evident, he said, in both the massive funeral processions for fallen commanders and the active preparations for the upcoming municipal elections.
He described a visible sense of enthusiasm across towns and villages, with some areas securing consensus and others witnessing competition among strong electoral lists.
“Yet, all contestation remains within the framework of the resistance and its loyalist factions, under the banner of honoring our martyrs,” he said.
Local Governance in Challenge
Reflecting on the role of municipalities, the lawmaker underlined that while municipal councils are a foundational part of local governance, they are unable to function effectively amid the economic collapse, diminishing revenues, and shrinking government support.
“The state bears increased responsibility toward local communities. Municipalities cannot be burdened beyond their means,” he warned.
He also criticized what he described as “chronic discrimination in development policies,” stating that while Lebanon’s constitution calls for balanced development, implementation has long fallen short—leaving glaring disparities between regions.
Development Goals Undermined
Hezbollah’s Hajj Hasan acknowledged that while some municipal objectives have been met, others have been hindered by a combination of factors: weak municipal budgets, absence of integrated development strategies, and erratic government programs—all exacerbated by the broader financial meltdown.
“This has obstructed both new infrastructure projects and the maintenance of existing ones, despite notable achievements in several towns,” he said.
In closing, Hajj Hasan reflected on the community’s resilience, stating, “War has destroyed infrastructure and property, but it has not broken the people’s resolve. Their commitment to the path of resistance remains steadfast.”
Addressing those calling for abstention or disengagement, he added, “You were once the loudest voices declaring, ‘We are at your service, Nasrallah.’ Today, following the martyrdom of our leaders, you renew that vow: “We shall keep the covenant, O’ Nasrallah.”
Source: Al-Manar Website
