By tens of thousands, the Lebanese went Sunday in the street to demand the departure of a political class deemed unfit and corrupt, the fourth day of a protest movement unpublished in a country with long years of economic difficulties.
"The people want the fall of the regime"
The movement, which has won many cities including the capital Beirut and paralyzed the country, seems to have been triggered spontaneously Thursday after the announcement of a tax on calls made via WhatsApp. A tax canceled immediately under the pressure of the street. But the demonstrations, gathering workers, academics, shopkeepers, students, young and old, and of all faiths, have not stopped since, day and night.
From Tripoli and Akkar, in the north, to Baalbeck in the east through many coastal towns and up to Tire and Saïda in the south and Chouf in the east, the Lebanese marched to express their ras-le -bowl. Under a cloud of Lebanese flags, protesters shout "Revolution, Revolution" or "the people want the fall of the regime," key slogans of the Arab Spring.
Since the end of the civil war (1975-1990), the political class, almost unchanged, is accused of business in a country with decaying infrastructure - chronic shortage of electricity and drinking water - and where life is expensive .
Saad Hariri could resign
An ultimatum to Monday was set by Prime Minister Saad Hariri to have the final approval of the members of his government coalition, undermined by the divisions to a plan of reforms. Saad Hariri insinuated that he could resign if he failed to pass his reforms. But his coalition is dominated by the camp of President Michel Aoun and his allies - including Hezbollah, opposed to a resignation.
Ally Saad Hariri, the Lebanese Forces party announced Saturday the resignation of his four ministers, an initiative welcomed by the jubilant protesters.