Lebanon Set to Postpone Elections as Diaspora Voting Remains Unresolved

Lebanon is facing a likely delay in its 2026 parliamentary elections amid a political deadlock over how Lebanese citizens living abroad will cast their votes. Government sources indicate that without a resolution on diaspora participation, holding elections on schedule in May is increasingly improbable.

The core dispute revolves around the existing law, which grants expatriates six dedicated seats in Parliament. While supporters insist on maintaining this framework, opposition parties argue that Lebanese abroad should have the right to vote for all 128 parliamentary seats. The disagreement has stalled legislative action and left electoral authorities grappling with logistical planning.

A special technical committee has proposed several options to facilitate diaspora voting, ranging from implementing the current law to modifying it to allow wider participation. The Foreign Affairs Ministry has meanwhile instructed embassies and consulates to begin preparations, including voter registration and setting up polling facilities, underscoring the urgency of resolving the issue.

Nearly 152,000 Lebanese expatriates are already registered to vote, highlighting the significant impact their participation could have on parliamentary representation. Observers warn that further delays could disenfranchise the diaspora and raise tensions among political factions.

President Joseph Aoun has signaled openness to a short postponement to accommodate a workable voting mechanism for expatriates, while parliamentary leaders continue negotiations behind closed doors. Analysts say the final decision will hinge on whether the legislature can agree on reforming or upholding the current electoral law.

With the clock ticking toward May, Lebanese authorities are racing against time to ensure that diaspora voters can participate effectively, or risk undermining both the legitimacy and inclusivity of the upcoming elections.