Lebanon’s “debacle de debris” is getting stinkier by the minute. Protestors have drawn a line in the sand, acting today to oust Minister of Environment Mohammad Machnouk. But there’s another line to consider - a fine one separating tragedy and comedy, which picketers in Beirut's week-long demonstrations have crossed, hoping to keep things calm with comedic antics that communicate their cause.
Trash-gate began on July 17 when locals weary of being “dumped on” shut down the country's largest landfill. Government failure to resolve the dispute resulted in walls of waste along city streets, attracting rats and repelling residents.
Social-media movement Tol3et Re7atkom (a/k/a You Stink) has incited tens of thousands to take to the streets to protest the mounting mess, but the underlying agenda is increasingly political with increased accusations of government corruption.
Earlier today, You Stink protesters began a sit-in at Ministry of Environment, allegedly trapping the Minister inside his office, and promising to stay until he resigns. A handful of picketers are diffusing the potential powderkeg by posing in costumes and carrying placards painted with truly funny slogans.
It’s a clever way to draw attention to the crisis, because isn't comedy just a funny way to be serious?
::All images from Facebook
