Thousands of protesters marched on Beirut’s Martyrs’ Square, calling for “revenge” against the ruling class of politicians, who were widely blamed for the blast that swept large areas of Lebanon’s capital.
The protesters set up mock gallows in what were called “Judgment Day” protests, as grief gave way to anger after more than 154 people were killed and dozens more were missing. More than 5,000 people were injured.
Protesters also held up signs reading, “Here’s where the noses should be hung.” The mocking gallows have become a key symbol of the demonstrations, which demand that those responsible for Tuesday’s explosion be held accountable, as well as against corruption and mismanagement of the country.
The gallows were erected on the same spot where several people were hanged more than 100 years ago by the then ruling Ottoman Empire for revolt against Istanbul. The standard Martyr’s Square commemorates those performances.
“We were born and raised with this regime in place – we believe it’s time to move on to the last explosion,” said 18-year-old protester Dana Itani. “These politicians deserve to be hanged here, they honestly deserve even worse.”
Protesters hurled stones at riot police near Najmeh Square, where the country’s parliament is located.
“I live the civil war. I was displaced, living hard days and we have already lost homes in the war. We thought this was it,” said Hayat Gharazeddine, 51. “However, these days are less than war. You have no idea how you could die now, that’s the worst thing. “
“I wish I could hang them myself,” she added.
Lebanon was already embroiled in an economic meltdown ahead of Tuesday’s blast, which destroyed its main port, and destroyed grain silos. The international community has already sent emergency medical and food supplies to the country and is investing tens of millions of dollars in funds.
Tuesday’s disaster could also bring the country’s political crisis to a tipping point. Since a popular uprising in October over the government of former Prime Minister Saad Hariri, public unrest against the ruling political class has been rampant, accelerating a financial crisis that is one of the worst the country has ever seen. .
Five MPs have been fired in protest, in addition to some high-profile official dismissals. Authorities have detained 16 people in connection with the blast, including Lebanese customs director general Badri Daher, Beirut port chief Hasan Kraytem and former customs chief Chafic Merei.
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