BEIRUT — Tens of thousands of people gathered Sunday to mark the fifth anniversary of the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, whose death touched off Lebanon’s “Cedar Revolution” and ushered in the end of Syria’s 30-year military domination.
Although turnout was huge, it was estimated to be fewer than in previous years — perhaps a reflection of the rift within the pro-Western ruling coalition, now headed by the slain Hariri’s son, the current prime minister.
“I am here to say Rafik Hariri did not die for nothing,” said Zeina al-Sidani, who was carrying a Lebanese flag in one hand and a red rose in the other. “We will continue to fight for our independence.”
Hariri was killed in a truck bombing on Valentine’s Day 2005. An international tribunal set up to try his killers has yet to identify the perpetrators.
The five-time prime minister had close ties with Western leaders as well as Syria and was credited with helping rebuild Lebanon’s capital after the 1975-90 civil war. In the last few months before his assassination, however, he had tried to limit Damascus’ influence over Lebanon.
