Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam. (Credit: National News Agency)
Designated Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated Monday that the formation of the government "is progressing" per the criteria he established and within the framework of the "reformist and rescue" trajectory he promised, reports the National Information Agency (NNA).
"The formation of the government is progressing positively, following the promised reformist and salvaging trajectory, in consultation with the President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, and under the already defined criteria," Salam declared.
Last week, speaking from Baabda, Salam assured that he would not backtrack on any of the criteria he had defined since his designation for the formation of his cabinet. "A government based on the principle of separation between Parliament and government, based on high national competencies, where there are no candidates for municipal or parliamentary elections, and in which parties will not be represented," he enumerated.
On Monday, Salam also emphasized that "any suggestion of ministerial names being imposed on him is completely unfounded." He also indicated that insinuations of a disagreement between him and certain forces or parties "are wrong, as positive communication is maintained with all concerned parties."
The media reports progress regarding the governmental draft, which could be ready very soon. Progress has been made despite a series of criticisms, notably on social media, concerning leaked information about the names and composition of Nawaf Salam's team. Among the demands is that of the Shiite tandem to retain control of the Finance Ministry, heavily criticized by anti-Hezbollah factions.
After more than two years without a leader at the head of the Lebanese state, Joseph Aoun was elected president on Jan. 9, and a few days later, on Jan. 13, Nawaf Salam was designated to form the new ministerial team. The accession of these two men to power brings hope for renewal among many Lebanese after Hezbollah emerged deeply weakened from its war against Israel.
