Supporters of President Michel Aoun were on Sunday flocking to the presidential palace in Baabda from all Lebanese regions to extend congratulations to the newly-elected president in scenes reminiscing the 1988-1990 era when Aoun was in the palace as the head of a military government.
The crowds were exclusively carrying Lebanese flags at Aoun's request. State-run National News Agency said security forces confiscated a number of partisan flags near the palace at the request of the organizing committee and in line with Aoun's wish.
Aoun was expected to address the crowds from the palace's balcony and five long-time comrades were supposed to be standing next to him.