Michel Aoun has recently been in the news due to the ongoing political crisis in Lebanon, marked by a prolonged presidential vacancy that has lasted nearly two years. His presidency, which began on 31 October 2016, has been scrutinized amid Lebanon's deepening economic turmoil and social unrest. Aoun's tenure has faced criticism for failing to address rampant corruption and the country's deteriorating infrastructure, leading to calls for political reform and a more effective governance structure. The recent election of Joseph Aoun as a potential successor has sparked discussions about revitalizing Lebanon's government institutions and securing international support.
Born on 18 February 1935, Michel Aoun is a Lebanese politician and former military general. He served as the commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces before entering politics, becoming a prominent figure during the Lebanese Civil War. Aoun's political career has been marked by his staunch opposition to Syrian influence in Lebanon and his advocacy for Lebanese sovereignty. He founded the Free Patriotic Movement in 2005, which has played a significant role in Lebanese politics. Aoun's presidency has been characterized by attempts to navigate a complex political landscape, balancing various sectarian interests while facing significant challenges from both domestic and international fronts.