After a long break, political and parliamentary work has started again. Since Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s government, “Together for Rescue,” gained confidence in 2021 at the UNESCO Palace, it became a long-term caretaker government due to an unexpected presidential vacancy. Today, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government, called “Reform and Rescue,” is being presented in Parliament.
Over two days, the session focused on reading the decrees of Mikati’s government’s resignation, Salam’s appointment and formation, followed by the ministerial statement by the Prime Minister, on which his government will gain confidence. Then, parliamentary speeches will begin, with each speech lasting half an hour for impromptu speeches and fifteen minutes for written ones, according to the internal regulations and the authority of Speaker Nabih Berri. Seventy-five MPs have requested to speak.
Significance of the New Government
Politically, this government is significant because it is the first government of the new era, coinciding with the beginning of President Joseph Aoun‘s term and the content of his inaugural speech and Salam’s speech upon his appointment. This is in its favor. Additionally, it comes after numerous political, security, and economic challenges, making it face a tough test, even though its term is short, not exceeding the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Government’s Official Plan
The government’s official plan also states that only the state should have the right to carry weapons and make decisions about war and peace. It also promises to follow a neutral foreign policy, keeping Lebanon out of regional conflicts.
Vote of Confidence
Lebanon’s parliament gave a vote of confidence to the new government , 95 lawmakers voted in favor of the new government, 12 voted against it, and 4 abstained.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s Responses
When it was his turn to speak, Salam responded briefly to the points raised by lawmakers. Here are some of the key things he said:
Democratic Practices:
“It’s time to return to proper democratic practices, where there is a majority that supports the government and a minority that opposes it. The government is open to questioning and will listen to constructive criticism.”
Liberation of Lebanese Territories:
“The government is committed to freeing Lebanese land from Israeli occupation. Since taking office, they have launched a diplomatic campaign to gather support and pressure Israel to stop violating Lebanon’s sovereignty, withdraw from Lebanese land, and follow UN resolution 1701. The government also affirmed Lebanon’s right to defend itself if attacked.”
Appointments and Decentralization:
“Important appointments will be made within weeks, ensuring that qualified people are chosen. The government will also push for decentralization and create a national body to eliminate sectarian politics.”
Law Implementation:
“To make sure laws are properly enforced, Salam has instructed all ministries and public offices to prepare the necessary regulations for applying existing laws. This must be done by mid-April.”
Dialogue with Syrian Authorities:
“The government will engage in serious talks with Syrian authorities and insists on the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.”
The government’s official plan also states that only the state should have the right to carry weapons and make decisions about war and peace. It also promises to follow a neutral foreign policy, keeping Lebanon out of regional conflicts.
