If endorsed, the state of emergency law will give the military exceptional powers to snuff out renewed protests demanding the overthrow of a political elite widely held responsible for the devastating blast, human rights groups said. Calls had circulated on social media networks for protesters to gather near parliament to prevent lawmakers from joining the session. "We are taking to the streets to stop the criminals from meeting," said one post on social media networks. Thursday's parliament session comes as French Defence Minister Florence Parly is due to arrive in Lebanon for a two-day visit. David Hale, the top career diplomat at the US State Department, was also expected in Beirut on Thursday.

Source: Dhaka Tribune August 13, 2020 13:41 UTC