❊ Mr. Hariri’s Absence is not the Problem. His Silence Is.

There’s a lot of discussion going on in the country on whether or not Mr. Saad Hariri is a “refugee” in Paris due to an assassination threat.

The leader of the opposition is excused in his absence. His safety is paramount. What is absurd is his complete silence. No comment on the new government. No comment on the opposition’s strategy. No comment on the events in Tripoli. It’s as if he’s confirming what MP Aoun said yesterday, that he has given Mr. Hariri a one way ticket out of Lebanon.

The MPs of the Future Movement and March 14 in general are trying to put a brave face on the events and they are being heavily involved in politics. But as long as their leader is missing in action, their actions and statements will remain without gravity.

Has Mr. Hariri resigned from politics? The question seems outrageous (his media and political group are still as active as ever), but I can’t think of any other reason why he wouldn’t at least communicate, through the media, with his supporters. I’m now starting to wonder whether or not he’s issuing directives to his political people on the ground.

Mr. Hariri has better put his act together and become pro-active again. This is the big leagues and there’s no room for a breathing space.