Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam vowed on Wednesday to form a reformist government that will operate without internal gridlock, pledging transparency and unity as Lebanon faces pressing national challenges.
Speaking at a press conference at Baabda Palace following his meeting with President General Joseph Aoun, Salam outlined his strategy for assembling a cabinet that prioritizes competence, internal harmony, and ministerial solidarity. “I want to be transparent with the Lebanese people about the formation of our government,” he declared. “Your aspirations are my guide, and I am determined to assemble a cabinet that not only meets high standards of competence but also operates with complete internal harmony and unwavering ministerial solidarity. I will not allow any internal disruptions to derail our efforts.”
Salam acknowledged that the lengthy formation process has been hampered by entrenched practices and narrow interests resistant to change. However, he expressed confidence that adhering strictly to the constitution—and to newly established criteria—would yield a government capable of addressing Lebanon’s critical issues.
Addressing concerns from critics over measures that extend beyond constitutional requirements—such as barring certain electoral candidates from holding office and limiting dual-party affiliations—Salam explained, “While these measures are not mandated by our constitution, I have chosen to implement them as additional safeguards. They will ensure that our government remains independent and that the upcoming elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.”
The Prime Minister-designate also stressed that, although political parties are essential in a healthy democracy, the current focus must be on effective governance rather than on partisan divides. “Lebanon stands at a critical crossroads,” he stated. “Our task is to lay the foundation for comprehensive reform and state reconstruction.”
Concluding his remarks, Salam reaffirmed his commitment to the nation, promising to work tirelessly to steer Lebanon toward a future defined by robust reform and national unity.
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