ABSTRACT
With Jumblāt’s stricter measures for controlling demonstrations on the books, the Chamber of Deputies prepared to elect a new President; Hilū’s term would end on September 22. In late July, the Phalangists nominated their founder, Pierre Gemayel, to be their party’s candidate for the office. Camille Chamoun wanted to announce his candidacy but felt it necessary to await Fu‛ād Shihāb’s decision whether or not to run. A few wags, noting the degree of influence wielded by the former President during the six Hilū years, suggested that the incumbant ought to try for his first term. As it turned out, Fu‛ād Shihāb made his final decision on August 5 not to seek the presidency, and Chamoun announced his candidacy a few days later.
