Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged ministers in the new government to prioritize state loyalty and serve the public. He emphasized the importance of anti-corruption measures, budget issues, and local elections. The session also addressed legal developments related to the Beirut port explosion investigation, highlighting a shift towards accountability.
BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun addressed the ministers in the newly formed government, emphasizing that their loyalty must be strictly to the state. He stated that the ministers are to serve the people and not the other way around. Aoun highlighted the necessity of their credibility through anti-corruption initiations and key governmental appointments.
During his remarks, Aoun pointed out that immediate priorities include the state budget, local elections, and the Israeli withdrawal scheduled for February 18. He urged ministers to avoid criticizing foreign nations, stressing that Lebanon should not become a platform for such remarks. Salam’s government comprises specialists nominated by various political factions rather than direct party affiliates.
Aoun reassured the ministers that while the state is not bankrupt, the administration requires revitalization through reforms. He called for focusing on enhancing ministries in light of the considerable international support available, contingent upon necessary reforms being implemented.
In a complementary address, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam insisted on the importance of a complete separation between public duties and private interests for ministers. He stated that they must dedicate their efforts solely to governmental responsibilities and resign from any leadership roles in commercial entities, though involvement in social organizations is permitted.
Following their session, Minister of Information Paul Morcos confirmed the establishment of a committee tasked with drafting a constitutional statement aimed for completion shortly. The Prime Minister reassured that political disputes should be avoided, with all parties working toward comprehensive solutions.
A political source indicated that the upcoming ministerial statement will stress the necessity of ending the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories, aligning with President Aoun’s oath speech. Newly appointed officials described the initial gathering as promising, with deputy prime minister Tarek Mitri announcing the committee’s first meeting to draft the statement.
Salam also received congratulatory calls, including one from UAE’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, regarding the new government’s formation. Ensuring parliament’s confidence is essential for the government to commence its operations after proposing the ministerial statement.
In a significant legal update, Cassation Public Prosecutor Jamal Hajjar accepted a formal defense memorandum from Judge Tarek Bitar concerning the Beirut port explosion case. This action marked a notable restoration of legal proceedings following a prolonged suspension that lasted over three years, during which Bitar faced obstacles, including lawsuits and threats against him.
Investigations resumed last week, as Bitar interrogated multiple defendants involved in the 2020 port explosion, which tragically resulted in over 230 fatalities and thousands of injuries. The investigation had previously stalled due to cases filed against Bitar, who faced intimidation from political entities as well.
The recent session involving Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam outlined critical reforms needed in the new government. Emphasis was placed on loyalty to the state, anti-corruption efforts, and prioritization of the state budget and local elections. Furthermore, significant developments in the Beirut port explosion investigation signal a renewed commitment to legal accountability amidst previous adversity.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
