General Michel Sleiman

Michel Sleiman is the President of Lebanon and formerly served as the commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

He was elected president by the parliament of Lebanon on May 25, 2008, winning 118 out of 127 votes.

Sleiman was widely considered the only possible candidate for president.

He is one of the few leaders in Lebanon who has managed to win the trust of the Hezbollah led opposition, while at the same time maintaining his position in the government.

He also has the support from neighboring Arab countries and most Western countries.

Fast Facts

1. Born: November 21, 1948
2. December 21, 1998: Appointed Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces
3. May 25, 2008: Elected President of Lebanon
4. Won 118 out of 127 parliamentary votes
5. Religion: Maronite Catholic