Pierre Gemayel Passes Freedom Legacy down to Son
21 Nov 201407:47 AM
Pierre Gemayel Passes Freedom Legacy down to Son
…In cold blood, they killed him… With cruel intent, they pierced his body with a volley of bullets, assuming they would muzzle a man whose patriotic sense had transcended all obstacles and barriers.
 
On the eve of Lebanon’s Independence Day and ahead of the Lebanese Kataeb party’s 70th anniversary, Pierre Amine Gemayel was assassinated in a brazen daylight attack. That day, the country had lost a man who resisted oppression and dictatorship; a freedom fighter who has become a role model for those seeking democracy and dialogue.
 
As we mark the eighth anniversary of the assassination of Pierre Gemayel, it was vital for us to visit his residence, being certain that such a brave man wouldn’t sink without trace.
 
“Pierre is alive”, this isn’t merely an expression but a reality because he did not die, nor did his dream that is still vivid in the spirits of his wife and two sons.
 
“It was my father who taught me the national anthem and used to keep telling me about the need to cling to my homeland,” said Amine, Pierre’s elder son.
 
The young boy warded off claims that his father’s martyrdom has gone in vain, expressing belief in Lebanon’s resilience and power to overcome hardships.
 
Asked whether he will get involved in the political field one day, Amine said that he would assume any role that enables him to serve his country best.
 
For her part, Patricia Gemayel said that had her husband still been alive, he would have sorrowed over the current political deadlock that is plaguing the country.
 
“He would have exerted utmost efforts so as to prevent Lebanon from reaching this deplorable phase,” she added.
 
Pierre’s wife said that she will not stand in her sons’ way in case they choose to get involved in politics, noting that such a decision is uncontrollable.
 
“I would be proud of them should they opt for this choice. I know that Pierre himself would also be proud of them,” Patricia said. “I will be standing by their side no matter what; their success is my top priority.”
 
Asked about investigations into her husband’s assassination, Patricia stressed that the state is fulfilling its duties, noting, however, that crises battering the country are hindering the process.
 
“I have full confidence in the state. The truth will eventually be uncovered,” she concluded.
 
It was no surprise that assassins had claimed the life of Pierre Gemayel, for their sole target was to foil attempts aiming at building a sovereign and independent nation.
 
Having had what it takes to get to the Baabda Palace, Pierre Gemayel was feared enough to be killed.
 
 
Article originally written in Arabic by Elise Merhej