The upcoming vote, set to take place unless postponed for a fourth consecutive time, comes against the backdrop of continued Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon [Getty]
Lebanon is ramping up preparations for municipal elections scheduled for May, in what many see as a critical barometer of traditional party strength – particularly Hezbollah – as the country navigates a volatile political landscape shaped by shifting alliances and escalating regional tensions.
The upcoming vote, set to take place unless postponed for a fourth consecutive time, comes against the backdrop of continued Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon and widespread fears of a broader military escalation. These conditions have placed added weight on the elections, which may serve as a referendum on Hezbollah’s popular support following the recent Israeli war on Lebanon.
Although MPs Waddah Sadek and Mark Daou have introduced a draft law proposing a five-month technical delay to allow for urgent electoral reforms, most political parties remain adamant about holding the elections on time. They argue that extending the already expired mandate of municipal and local councils – last valid in May 2022 – would be unacceptable.
Parliament has already extended council mandates three times: in 2022 due to parliamentary elections, in 2023 amid a presidential vacuum, and most recently in 2024 in response to Israel’s assault on southern Lebanon.
The interior ministry has now confirmed the electoral schedule, with voting staggered by region: Mount Lebanon on 4 May, North Lebanon and Akkar on 11 May, Beirut, Bekaa, and Baalbek-Hermel on 18 May, and South Lebanon and Nabatieh on 25 May.
Parties gear up ahead of 2026 parliamentary battle
Political factions are mobilising in key electoral strongholds such as Tripoli, Sidon, Beirut, and districts in Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa. Opposition groups hope to leverage what they perceive as weakening support for Hezbollah in the aftermath of Israel’s offensive, along with internal shifts in political power. For most major players, these elections serve as a dress rehearsal for the far more consequential 2026 parliamentary race.
Hezbollah sources told The New Arab that the group was ready for the elections and sees them as a chance to showcase its enduring grassroots presence. The vote also carries external significance, with Hezbollah aiming to signal to international observers that it remains a dominant force within Lebanon’s political framework. Its alliance with the Amal Movement is expected to be central to its strategy.
The Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), despite internal divisions and its current exclusion from government, is also preparing to contest the elections in areas of traditional strength, including Beirut and Mount Lebanon. Likewise, the Future Movement – revived by Saad Hariri’s return to politics – is planning limited involvement, primarily focused on positioning for the 2026 parliamentary vote amid ongoing financial and organisational challenges.
Logistical issues ahead of the vote
Former Interior Minister Ziyad Baroud told The New Arab that, barring a last-minute legislative move by parliament, the elections will go ahead. He confirmed that the ministry was logistically prepared and that the necessary funding has been secured.
While some 37 municipalities in the south have been devastated by recent conflict, Baroud suggested that technical solutions – such as alternative polling centres or localised election delays – could address these challenges without derailing the national vote.
Baroud acknowledged that security remains a pressing concern, particularly in areas exposed to Israeli bombardment and along unstable borders.
“War has never truly stopped in Lebanon,” he said, citing poet Said Akl: “From one danger, we move to another – what does it matter? We were born into danger.” However, he noted that full-scale voting would be suspended if hostilities resume at pre-ceasefire levels.
Lawyer and analyst Tony Mikhail outlined a range of issues threatening the credibility and safety of the elections. These include ongoing Israeli threats, border skirmishes with Syria, rising internal gun violence, and inter-clan disputes – particularly in rural areas where municipal elections often carry a tribal dimension.
Mikhail also flagged logistical concerns, though he acknowledged the interior ministry often relies on international support – from the UN and EU – to cover election logistics. A major uncertainty, however, is the participation of underpaid public sector employees, whose involvement is critical for election-day operations.
Electoral integrity is another point of concern. Lebanon’s Supervisory Commission for Elections lacks the legal authority to oversee campaign spending, opening the door to vote-buying and allowing wealthy candidates disproportionate influence.
“Local interests often come second to political bargaining,” Mikhail said, calling for reforms to protect grassroots representation.
The war-ravaged south presents unique obstacles. Dozens of border towns remain too dangerous or damaged to host elections.
Mikhail proposed setting up regional “mega centers” in cities like Tyre, Sidon, Nabatieh, and Beirut, enabling displaced voters to cast their ballots safely.
