Carole Salloum, "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency 

President Aoun's Unpredictable Tours: To Be Continued...

Operating in compliance with the law and in alignment with national interests

President Joseph Aoun’s recent tours of vital national institutions have not gone unnoticed. Their timing and frequency underscore a deliberate and strategic approach that marks a distinct shift in presidential engagement under his leadership. These visits, characterized by depth, inquiry, and assurance, send a strong message: The state remains the cornerstone of national stability, and the President of the Republic stands as its foremost guarantor.

Such visits have historically been rare and often absent from the agendas of former presidents. This raises the question: Are these tours a defining element of his presidential style, or are they primarily aimed at reinforcing the significance of recent governmental appointments? 

Each visit carries its own contextual weight. A tour of security agencies is inherently different from a visit to the Traffic Management Authority, the Economic and Social Council, or the Central Bank. Yet a unifying principle emerges from President Aoun’s public remarks: A firm commitment to depoliticizing state institutions, eliminating sectarian influence, and insulating public administration from partisan interference.

Political sources familiar with the President’s agenda told "Akhbar al-Yawm" that these visits are more than symbolic. They represent a renewed institutional philosophy aimed at restoring the primacy of lawful governance. President Aoun’s presence at these facilities serves not only to assess performance but also to affirm that the continuity of public service is a national imperative. These engagements are neither episodic nor restricted to specific ministries or sectors. Further visits are expected, scheduled at the President’s discretion based on strategic priorities.

The same sources emphasized that President Aoun’s moves may be unpredictable, but they are intentional and aligned with his core principles, with upcoming key visits likely tied to his personal agenda and aimed at reinforcing national interest.

Importantly, President Aoun’s interactions with institutional leadership have also served a larger purpose. His statements provide a policy compass for governance, reflecting an overarching objective: to strengthen confidence in the state both domestically and internationally, and to systematically dismantle the roots of corruption.

Once again, and potentially on several future occasions, President Aoun’s institutional visits mark a significant and long-missed development in Lebanon’s political landscape. After years of absence due to challenging circumstances, these tours now affirm a renewed presidential commitment to standing in constant support of state institutions.