'Reforms aim to end clientelism and bribery at Vehicle Registration Department,' Hajjar says from Dikwaneh

BEIRUT — The Minister of Interior, Ahmad Hajjar, visited the Vehicle Registration Authority in Dikwaneh on Tuesday, where he inspected services and reiterated that ongoing reforms aim to prevent the department from becoming “a space for financial, political, or clientelist interests,” stressing that the priority is improving service delivery to citizens, the state-run National News Agency reported Tuesday.

Hajjar said during his visit with a delegation that all transactions are now processed through official systems without intermediaries, brokers, or bribes, and that violations are being strictly monitored and referred to the judiciary, as the ministry moves toward full digital transformation of the department.

Acting Head of the Vehicle Registration Department Nazih Qobrosli presented, after the tour, the “measures implemented over the past months and the improvements achieved at the department, particularly in enhancing services and facilitating transactions.”

For his part, Hajjar held a press conference where he stressed that “the ministry continues its efforts to modernize and improve the performance of its affiliated administrations to better serve citizens and strengthen trust in public institutions, emphasizing transparency and efficiency.”

He said the reform process at the Dikwaneh Vehicle Registration Department has made “significant progress,” noting that reform in public administrations is possible but requires “strong decisions and political will at the highest levels.”

Hajjar recalled that the situation during his first visit with President Joseph Aoun was “very difficult,” explaining that a three-phase reform plan was adopted: immediate, medium-term, and long-term. He said the ministry has now nearly completed the medium-term phase and is preparing for the long-term stage.

He also underlined that the success of reforms at the Vehicle Registration Department was due to a clear decision to prevent the facility from becoming “a space for financial, political, or clientelist interests, stressing that the goal is to provide the best service to citizens.”

Hajjar affirmed that no one can use intermediaries to complete driving exams, obtain licenses, or process any transactions, regardless of position, “from the Interior Minister downwards,” noting that all procedures are now conducted strictly according to system and queue.

Hajjar also said the ministry is continuously monitoring any suspicions involving employees, stressing that “violations are dealt with firmly and that anyone found guilty is held accountable and referred to the judiciary.”

He said the next phase will include full digital transformation of the Vehicle Registration Department.

Hajjar rejected ongoing allegations of corruption or deals related to the department, describing them as unfounded, while acknowledging that minor issues exist but are being quickly addressed. He also said staffing and appointment mechanisms are being developed to ensure continuity of services.

In April 2025, Aoun conducted a surprise, early-morning inspection of the Vehicle Registration Authority in Dikwaneh to address corruption and administrative issues.