LESSONS FROM LEBANON

by Ghalib Sultan

Violence wracked Lebanon has held a successful election. The voter turnout was an impressive 54%. Lebanon did not allow external influence---something that has been a feature of previous elections. The smaller parties had joined together to form two blocs-March 8 ( pro Hezbullah) and March 14 ( liberal and secular). March 14 victory was a conclusive proof of the moderation and harmony that the majority of Lebanese want.

It is a sign of maturity in the political environment that Hezbullah accepted the election results and accepted defeat. The stage is now set for a Coalition Government with Saad Hariri as the new leader. A consensus government will be good for Lebanon, for the region, for the US and the world. There may be problems-like the Hazb insistence on a veto right and the Hezb may have other concerns but there is optimism all around.

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