Amendment to Extend President’s Term
Pro-Syrian President Emile Lahoud’s bid to stay in office three more years was assured as rival Prime Minister Rafik Hariri bowed to Syrian pressure and proposed a constitutional amendment allowing the head of state to extend his term.
The amendment, adopted at a Cabinet meeting, will be sent to parliament, where pro-Syrian legislators hold a large majority. Lahoud’s term expires Nov. 24, and parliament was expected to meet this week to pass the amendment.
Lahoud’s supporters, citing the security and political conditions in the Middle East, say he should stay in office. His opponents say there is nothing to justify amending the constitution.
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