Protests in Lebanon Demand Amnesty for Detained Islamists
In a display of mounting frustration, families of detained Islamists in Lebanon have taken to the streets in protest. Demonstrations were held in both Sidon and Akkar, echoing a collective demand for a general amnesty and the release of prisoners. These actions highlight the ongoing struggles of those affected by the detention of their loved ones, against a backdrop of economic hardship and concerns about the judicial system.
Sidon Protest: A Call for Justice
Following Friday prayers, a gathering took place at the Elias intersection in Sidon. The protestors, including families of those convicted and detained in the Abra events and members of the Bilal bin Rabah Mosque youth, called for a comprehensive general amnesty. According to Annahar, a key speaker, Hadi al-Qawwas, emphasized that families have been seeking this amnesty for nearly 13 years, seeing it as a practical solution for Syrians, Lebanese, and Palestinians alike. He highlighted the unjust life sentences many young people have received.
Al-Qawwas further stated that those who contributed to the perceived injustice, including certain political figures and institutions, should be the ones seeking forgiveness. Despite this, the families have accepted the demand for a general amnesty, recognizing it as a pragmatic approach, even though it benefits the perpetrators rather than the victims. The protestors marched from the Aisha Mosque to Elias Square, carrying signs that demanded the general amnesty and the release of all detainees, including Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir.
Akkar Protest: Solidarity and Demands
In Akkar, a similar protest occurred after Friday noon prayers at the Babnin-Abda roundabout, the southern entrance to the Akkar Governorate. Families of the prisoners, along with supporters, participated. They demanded a swift resolution to the cases of the detained Islamists, expedited trials, and a general amnesty. The protest saw the participation of MP Walid al-Baarini and various religious figures.
Annahar’s correspondent reported that several speeches were delivered, with protestors chanting slogans for the release of the Islamist prisoners. Security forces were present to monitor the situation. The issue has resurfaced with the surrender of artist Fadel Shaker to Lebanese authorities and the commencement of his retrial.
Context and Concerns
The protests underscore the dire circumstances faced by detainees, including repeated deaths in prisons due to medical negligence and instances of suicide. The protestors’ demands are amplified by the ongoing economic crisis and the state’s inability to provide basic necessities to prisoners, as well as the delays in court proceedings due to an overburdened judicial system.
These demonstrations reflect a growing discontent over the handling of the detentions and the broader issues within the Lebanese justice system, particularly in light of the economic collapse and the challenges faced by the imprisoned population.
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