President Joseph Aoun emphasized the loyalty of ministers to the state, urging a focus on reform and addressing key issues like the budget and upcoming elections. The new government must separate public and private roles and draft a ministerial statement highlighting the need to address Israeli occupation. Meanwhile, the investigation into the Beirut port explosion shows renewed momentum with the formal resumption of procedures.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun addressed ministers in the newly formed government, emphasizing that their duty is solely to the state, not to any political faction. Following an official photo session at the presidential palace, Aoun urged the 24 ministers of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s cabinet to prioritize service to the public.
Aoun stressed the importance of not just forming a government but also demonstrating credibility through anti-corruption initiatives and key appointments across various sectors, including administrative and judicial. He outlined pressing matters for the government, such as the state budget, upcoming municipal elections, and the planned Israeli withdrawal on February 18.
During the inaugural session, Aoun advised ministers against criticizing Lebanon’s allies and reminded them that the country should not serve as a platform for such criticisms. The current government lacks direct party members, consisting instead of specialists nominated by political parties.
Aoun further highlighted the difference between the country’s state and its administrative system, asserting that while Lebanon is not bankrupt, administrative reforms are essential to restoring its functionality. He stated, “Our focus will be on reforming and developing the ministries in light of the significant international support we have received.”
The Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, echoed Aoun by calling for the clear separation of public and private responsibilities among ministers, insisting they resign from any positions in commercial entities. Salam clarified that this rule does not apply to roles in educational or social organizations aimed at benefitting the public.
Following their meeting, Minister of Information Paul Morcos announced the establishment of a ministerial committee tasked with drafting a constitutional statement, expected to be completed shortly. Morcos affirmed the Prime Minister’s commitment to avoiding political conflicts during this critical phase.
The upcoming ministerial statement is anticipated to reinforce the necessity of addressing the Israeli occupation and implementing Resolution 1701, ending with Minister Joe Al-Khoury praising the initial session as an excellent beginning. The deputy Prime Minister, Tarek Mitri, revealed that the committee’s first meeting would occur later in the day.
In a significant development, the Cassation Public Prosecutor, Jamal Hajjar, received a formal memorandum of defenses from Judge Tarek Bitar concerning the Beirut port explosion case. This move restored investigative procedures after former prosecutors had disregarded Bitar’s documentation, who had renewed his inquiry into the disaster after a prolonged hiatus.
Bitar’s inquiry, which had been stalled due to various lawsuits against him, recently resumed, focusing on questioning multiple defendants linked to the 2020 explosion that claimed over 230 lives. The investigation into the incident had faced numerous obstacles, including pressure and threats against Bitar from political factions, particularly Hezbollah and the Amal Movement.
President Joseph Aoun has outlined a clear mandate for the new Lebanese government, focusing on loyalty to the state and emphasizing integrity in public service. With a pressing agenda that includes reform and addressing urgent political issues, the government’s effectiveness hinges on their ability to enact necessary changes and restore public trust. Meanwhile, progress in the Beirut port explosion investigation marks a critical reevaluation of accountability as the nation seeks to rebuild and recover from past challenges.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
