Armenian genocide anniversary divides Lebanese Cabinet
Sunni and Christian factions in Lebanon are unable to agree on whether to observe the centennial of the Armenian genocide.
The 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide has led to a governmental and societal split in Beirut, not only regarding Lebanon’s representation at the commemorative ceremonies to be held in Armenia and Turkey, but also regarding the official Lebanese government's position.
In a Cabinet session held April 21 to discuss the public budget, ministers suddenly brought up the topic of the Armenian genocide, thus causing controversy. Ministers suggested that the Lebanese government issue a decree declaring April 24, 2015, a national holiday to mark the occasion of the centennial.
A governmental source who requested anonymity told Al-Monitor that Christian ministers had made the request. However, Sunni ministers soon presented their reservations on the issue, including Interior Minister Nouhad al-Machnouk and Justice Minister Ashraf Rifi. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Tammam Salam — also a Sunni — showed no excitement.
The source said that the ensuing debate was political and did not take on a sectarian character, at least in form. However, the parties that expressed their positions represented different sectarian affiliations.
