Minister of Justice Adel Nassar announced on Wednesday the completion of judicial appointments and transfers by the Higher Judicial Council (HJC), describing the move as a long-awaited step toward strengthening judicial independence in Lebanon.
Speaking at a press conference, Nassar praised the HJC for fulfilling its responsibilities “to the fullest extent,” and for adopting an approach that avoided political and sectarian quotas. “This will remain the basis,” he said, noting that the appointments adhered to objective criteria and the principle of judicial independence.
“We have received the draft formations, and the matter will proceed in accordance with legal procedures,” Nassar said, while clarifying that he had not reviewed the appointments in detail. “I am proceeding on the principle that the criteria were respected.”
Furthermore, Nassar emphasized the autonomy of the Council’s work, highlighting the positive relationship between the Ministry of Justice and the HJC. “I communicate with them on matters unrelated to the appointments. I trust their work and do not expect any obstacles to the approval process,” he said.
On the Beirut port blast probe, Nassar reiterated his support for the judicial investigator, affirming that the investigation will proceed and receive the full backing of his office “within the limits of the law.”
Appointments Announced by the HJC
- Raja Hamouche as Prosecutor General at the Beirut Court of Appeal
- Sami Sader as Prosecutor General of Mount Lebanon
- Samaranda Nassar as Advocate General at the Court of Cassation
- Marcel Haddad as Prosecutor General at the Beqaa Court of Appeal
- Kamal Nassar as President of the Beirut Indictment Chamber
- Roula Osman as Chief Investigative Judge of Beirut
- Hani Hajjar as Prosecutor General at the North Lebanon Court of Appeal
- Zaher Hamadeh as Prosecutor General at the South Lebanon Court of Appeal
- Najat Abou Chacra as Advocate General at the Nabatiyeh Court of Appeal
Earlier on Wednesday, the HJC had issued a statement confirming the unanimous approval of the appointments and transfers, asserting that the process was free of any external interference and based on objective standards. The Council said the performance of newly appointed judges will be evaluated over six months, with measures to be taken against those who fail to meet expectations.
The finalized plan has been submitted to the Ministry of Justice for procedural review and is set to take effect at the start of the new judicial year on September 16, 2025. The Council expressed hope that the appointments will enhance the judiciary’s effectiveness and restore public trust in the legal system.
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