Sleiman Franjieh: What was said was said

Source: Nowlebanon.com, 18-1-2008
Former Minister Sleiman Franjieh held a press conference today to comment on the latest developments over his statements against the Maronite Patriarch.
"What was said was said, and no one can impose their opinion on us," Franjieh told reporters. He also said that he is not trying to pick a fight with Bkirki.
"Bkirki dealt positively with the matter, and I would like to thank the apostolic enunciate to Lebanon, Mgr. Luigi Gatti, for his effort in this regard," Franjieh said.
The Patriarch had called on the Lebanese to refrain from rallying around Bkirki with expressions of solidarity against the campaign targeting him.
"Yet, any rallies at Bkirki aimed at denouncing our statements will be met with counter-rallies by our supporters," Franjieh warned.
He also noted that when Bkirki talks politics, the replies will be political, and when Bkirki talks religion, the reply will be on religion.
"We are not trying to undermine Bkirki's image on the condition that it does not undermine the image of others," he added.
"We hope that Bkirki is not safeguarding those undermining it. We know very well the history of everyone who is visiting Bkirki," Franjieh said, referring to Christian March 14 leaders.
Commenting on the accusations that the opposition is weakening the presidency by obstructing the elections, Franjieh said, "either we elect a president who works for Hariri, or we are accused of weakening the presidency."
He also expressed hope that once he visits Bkirki, the bishops will be present as eye witnesses to his meeting with the Patriarch.
"I hope Bkirki turns back toward the legacy of Patriarch Meoushi and Huwayek," Franjieh added.