[2] The appointment of a foreign mutasarrif caused widespread resentment in Mount Lebanon, particularly among Maronite feudal lords who contested their loss of power and influence.

One of his major antagonists was Youssef Bey Karam, a local Maronite strongman who mounted a rebellion against the Ottomans from 1866 to 1867.

[2] Despite the animosity of the local population, Dawud Pasha was credited with implementing a fair rule.

[2] The Ottoman foreign ministry was suspicious of Dawud Pasha's direct dealings with the European merchants and diplomatic delegations in Beirut; prerogative traditionally linked to his superior, the provincial governor.

In 1868, Dawud Pasha pressured the Sublime Porte for more power by tendering his resignation, which was accepted.