In the past few days, the Akkar region has witnessed heated media debates between a group of people who are likely to run in the upcoming parliamentary elections. However, the style of candidate Mohammad Badra, who adopted a personal and controversial approach months before the actual election campaign began, has particularly caught the eye.
Badra made veiled references against another candidate, and touched on issues of a personal nature, including hinting at his involvement in drug-related issues, without providing any evidence or information to support these allegations, which reflects the low level of political dialogue.
In the context of interactions on social media, one follower asked Badra: “You should do some project to employ these young people, we have not seen anything from you but talk,” and he replied sarcastically: “I wish I had money, do you think I should become a drug dealer?”, which indicates his disregard for serious accusations directed at other people.
This style that Badra follows in his election campaign raises doubts about his ability to lead a serious and responsible political dialogue, and highlights his focus on personal abuse instead of presenting clear plans or solutions to citizens’ problems. His recent actions are considered evidence of the weak electoral discourse in the Akkar region, and increase the public’s sense of frustration with the pointless media skirmishes that precede the elections.
