But for the sake of unity of the opposition , he stepped down in favor of Solange Gemayel , widow of the slain president Bashir Gemayel. Khoury called the move "crucial for the unity of Beirutis," adding: "My loyalty to the capital and to the nation urges me to stand against schemes that harm national unity. I worked for long years alongside Premier Rafik Hariri on approaching Christians and Muslims." . What a cavalier !

Another Maronite candidate, Beirut Municipal Council member George Tiyan, followed Khoury's lead, stepping down from the race "in order to prevent causing sectarian tensions,"

Above actions made Solange Gemayel a de-facto winner. She joins both Ghazi's Ghazi Aridi and Ghazi Youssef as the new members of the parliament

Naturally, Solange Gemayel was extremely grateful for Khoury's Sacrifice . She said: "I want to thank Ghattas Khoury for his sacrifice - and I know it is a great sacrifice." Gemayel added: "We will never forget the courage of Saad Hariri and the patriotism of Ghattas Khoury and his courageous stance in the face of the Syrian hegemony."

Hariri also lauded Khoury's decision, saying: "Ghattas Khoury, thank you, thank you, thank you."

We at Ya Libnan applaud these types of sacrifices and would like to see similar actions from other candidates. This is a lot better than the bickering and name calling we have seen recently. Let's hope that more positive stories will surface in the coming days and weeks. Good job Dr. Khoury !!

Sources: Ya Libnan, Daily Star, Naharnet,