The Independence Movement has denied reports that the party is readying for a municipal electoral battle against the Marada Movement in a number of villages in Zgharta district.

In a statement released Wednesday, the party said that the Independence Movement and the Marada Movement are working hard to reach a comprehensive agreement that would bring together representatives of political parties and civil society groups under one umbrella to ensure that municipal councils contribute to the development of towns and villages in Zgharta district.

The statement added that the Lebanese Forces and the Free Patriotic Movement are part of the municipal development project across Zgharta.

The Independence Movement said consensus has been reached in the overwhelming majority of towns across Zgharta district with the exception of a few villages where negotiations are still ongoing due to local disagreements unrelated to politics.