Lebanon: Political demonstration planned in Beirut January 20

Event

The Communist Party of Lebanon and affiliated leftist parties will reportedly stage a demonstration in Beirut on Sunday, January 20, to denounce delays in forming a government and perceived poor economic conditions. Demonstrators are expected to gather at Barbir Square from 12:00 (local time) and march to the Ministry of Finance on Bechara El Khoury Street. Associated demonstrations are possible in other cities nationwide. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated near any demonstrations.

Context

The Communist Party of Lebanon hosted demonstrations on January 12 in Beirut and other cities, including Zouk Mosbeh, Sidon, Halba, and Zahlé.

Lebanon has been without a government since the May 2018 legislative elections as parliamentary coalitions have failed to agree on representation within the Cabinet. Prime Minister Saad Hariri is currently opposing the inclusion of members of the March 8 Alliance, which includes Hezbollah, in the future government. Labor unions and political parties staged several demonstrations in late 2018 to denounce delays in forming a government and perceived government corruption, including in Beirut, Tripoli, and Tyre.

Advice

Individuals in Lebanon, particularly those in Beirut, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence near demonstrations.