Kahwagi to regulate army ties with politicians

Lebanese Army Commander General Jean Kahwaji on Tuesday asserted that the Army Command will be strict regarding the ties of officers with the Lebanese politicians. Kahwaji said the army was solely subject to his Command's authority and no contact with any politician should be allowed but after the approval of the Command. "Political followership is forbidden inside the military institution. No politician should stretch his hand to the army via officers or soldiers," he remarked. LAF Commander said, while chairing a security meeting of senior officers in Yarzeh, that the upcoming weeks will witness effective measures at more than a level, mainly in enhancing the transparency of the Army's management, in suppressing any abuse of power and in fighting any attempt at corruption. "Before the formation of the next government and with all the problems looming on the horizon as well as the political schism, the army will remain strong and united, away from divisions; The institution will be at the same distance from all political parties, but will not remain silence if ever these parties harm it," he noted. Kahwaji hailed the sacrifices of the officers who saved the lives of citizens during the last couple of days. Also, he warned against terrorist cells emerging in Lebanon, the ambulant security incidents as well as the Syrian crisis' repercussions.