Marwan Kheireddine: What You Need to Know About the 2022 Parliament Seat Candidate

Marwan Kheireddine: What You Need to Know About the 2022 Parliament Seat Candidate

After nearly three decades working in Lebanon’s private sector, Marwan Kheireddine is gearing up to run for the Druze seat in Hasbaya, one of 128 parliamentary seats. The Druze, which is a minority group in the region, makes up 5.2% of the Lebanese population and has its own electoral seat in the country’s Parliament. The ancient religious sect dates back to the 11th century and is peppered with elements of philosophy and Islamic and Hindu principles. As the nation counts down to its May election day, Kheireddine says he’s devoted his career to elevating fellow Lebanese citizens. “Lebanon is a special country,” says Kheireddine.

Here are five facts about the businessman turned politico:

1. He’s Created New Opportunities for the People of Lebanon

Marwan Kheireddine brought Virgin Megastores to Lebanon, creating hundreds of jobs in the international entertainment retail chain. Working with billionaire businessman Richard Branson, Marwan Kheireddine was not only able to provide the Lebanese people with cutting-edge consumer goods but was also able to give Lebanese orphans charitable gifts. He also introduced credit cards to Lebanon and says he’s crafted a surplus of job options in the financial sector.

2. He’s Held Office Before

Marwan Kheireddine was a minister of state in the Lebanese government between 2011 and 2014. One of his primary focuses was economic growth. He also served on the board of the Lebanese Stock Exchange.

3. He’s Trying to Save the Holiday Inn in Beirut

Marwan Kheireddine knows valuable property when he sees it. The visionary says he’s committed to saving this Lebanese landmark. The 26-story resort built in 1974 still bears the battle wounds of the Lebanese Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 1990. Marwan Kheireddine would like to see the hotel restored.

4. He’s Invested in Lebanese Youth

Not only has Marwan Kheireddine spearheaded programs such as YOUTHinc to fund budding Lebanese entrepreneurs seeking a boost in business, but he’s also mentored many of Lebanon’s students as a professor at the American University of Beirut. Teaching classes on finance, he says he’s still frequently approached by former students who thank him for making a difference in their lives. “This gives me the most satisfaction,” he says about being remembered as a positive influence on students.

5. Marwan Kheireddine Wants to Protect Lebanon’s Goats From Extinction

An avid outdoor enthusiast, Marwan Kheireddine has had a deep love for nature since his days as a Boy Scout. He continues to spend most of his free time outside. “I love nature,” Marwan Kheireddine says. Wild Lebanese ibex goats were roaming the country until 1918 but were wiped out due to overhunting, according to Marwan Kheireddine. The devoted nature fan partnered with a farm in Texas to breed more of these goats to return to Lebanon. He constructed a sanctuary in north Lebanon where the animals will be bred and released into the wild.

His love of country and nature, coupled with his vast business and political expertise, certainly make a potent mix for an effective member of the Lebanese Parliament. No matter the results on election day, Marwan Kheireddine says he’ll continue to contribute to the betterment of his country, and the world.