Lebanon protesters to form nationwide human chain

Tens of thousands of Lebanese protesters were to attempt a human chain running across the entire country Sunday to symbolise newfound national unity.

Demonstrators planned to join hands from Tripoli to Tyre, a 170-kilometre (105-mile) chain running through the main protest hub in Beirut, as part of an unprecedented cross-sectarian mobilisation.

Tension has mounted in recent days between security forces and protesters, who are blocking roads and bringing the country to a standstill to press their demands for a complete overhaul of the political system.

Lebanon's reviled political elite has been defending a belated package of economic reforms and appeared willing to reshuffle the government, but protesters who have stayed in the streets since October 17 want more.

On foot, by bicycle and on motorbikes, demonstrators and volunteers fanned out along the main north-south highway.

"Everything is ready, we even have volunteers on motorbikes who are helping us identify gaps in the chain," said Julie Tegho Bou Nassif, one of the organisers.

"The idea behind this human chain is to show an image of a Lebanon which, from north to south, rejects any sectarian affiliation," the 31-year-old history professor told AFP.

"There is no political demand today, we only want to send a message by simply holding hands under the Lebanese flag."