By Abdul Kimera
The explosion in “Akkar” in the early hours of Sunday is one of the most deadliest tragedies the country has faced since the August 4, 2020 blast at the Beirut port that destroyed various parts of the capital, wounded thousands and killed over 200.
Lebanon is currently facing severe gas, water, electricity and fuel shortages. This is blamed on smuggling, hoarding and the government’s inability to secure imported fuel.
In addition to Covid 19, there is also soaring poverty and hyperinflation in Lebanon, its currency losing almost 90% of its value prompting shops, bakeries and hospitals to struggle heavily.
The world bank report indicated that more than a half of the country’s population is now living in poverty. The report attributes this to the crippled political administration, and the Beirut port blast last year.
Politicians in Lebanon have failed to agree on a new government since the resignation of the former prime minister Hassan Daib in 2020 and later Saad Hariri this year.
Experts say Lebanon could exit this crisis if they make a reform minded government ready to serve the interests of the Lebanese people.
