Head of Independence Movement praises Sleiman, says president laid foundations of a sovereign Lebanon.

Head of the Independence Movement Michel Moawad has voiced strong support for President Michel Sleiman’s efforts to distance Lebanon from regional conflicts.

“President Michel Sleiman has laid the foundation of a sovereign and independent Lebanon and any future president will have to follow in his footsteps,” Moawad said following a meeting Wednesday with Sleiman at Baabda presidential palace.

Moawad said the presidential poll should be held within the constitutional deadline regardless of whether political parties reach an agreement over a consensus candidate.

“Even if parties fail to reach an agreement over a presidential candidate, the poll should be held within the constitutional deadline and lawmakers should cast their votes in a democratic and free election to choose a new president,” Moawad said. “Under no circumstances will void be an option.”

Moawad condemned Hezbollah for launching verbal attacks against Sleiman who is seeking a policy of neutrality that would protect Lebanon’s interests.

“It is a shame that the president is being criticized because he is seeking to protect national interests by distancing Lebanon from regional conflicts and strengthening the role of state institutions as announced in the Bkirki Charter,” Moawad added.