الأحزاب اللبنانية بين الأزمة والإصلاح..!

Political parties in Lebanon are registered under the framework of "associations," rather than under a specific law for parties, as the Ottoman Associations Law of 1909 is applied to them. This law regulates the establishment of associations, including political parties, and requires these entities to submit a "notification" to the government, which means informing it of their establishment. However, this law does not grant licenses in the modern sense, placing parties in a legally ambiguous position.

Most Lebanese parties are considered registered as political associations according to this old law, creating a state of legal ambiguity that hinders the development of political work. The law does not align with modern legislation that requires financial transparency and sources of funding. Additionally, many parties operate without known official documents, exposing them to the possibility of being considered secret associations if they do not comply with registration and periodic disclosure of budgets and member names.

Lebanon has gone through bitter experiences of civil wars that tore apart its national fabric and inflicted significant damage on both society and the state. During these conflicts, active political parties played a central role, being part of the crisis rather than part of the solution. After the end of these wars, the Taif Agreement was reached in 1989, which was supposed to represent a true beginning for ending internal conflicts and organizing a more transparent and honest governance process. Unfortunately, the provisions of this agreement have not been fully implemented to this day due to the collusion of political parties that continue to place their partisan interests above the interests of the nation.

These parties share power, having a direct influence on the presidency, the government, and the parliament. This mutual party control has led to the distribution of positions and decisions away from the interests of the people, hindering the necessary reforms to save Lebanon from its deep crises. The continued rule of these parties in Lebanon through the division of positions and the pursuit of narrow interests prevents the country from achieving stability and development.

The roles of the parties overlap with the state itself, as they provide essential services to citizens such as employment, education, and healthcare. This situation leaves citizens at their mercy and increases their dependence on these parties, thereby enhancing their influence and strengthening their control. Through this role, parties impose themselves and direct state decisions, proposing policies that serve their interests, which reinforces their presence in the political arena.

Therefore, it is essential for the state to make a bold decision to dissolve these parties and restructure them, enacting a new law that sets clear standards for funding, transparency, and accountability. This law must ensure that parties operate in accordance with the requirements of the modern era. Rebuilding the political landscape on new foundations that guarantee genuine participation of the people and establish a state of law and institutions is a crucial step that must be taken.

Rebuilding a new political system with clear landmarks is the only way to revive political life and ensure a better future for Lebanon and its people, as it represents a fundamental step to save the country from its ongoing crisis.