The cabinet session scheduled for today, Tuesday, has been postponed to a later date due to the lack of a quorum.
Protests led by retired military personnel prevented the cabinet session from convening at the Grand Serail this morning. Gatherings and demonstrations at designated locations blocked all roads leading to the government meeting place, effectively sealing off entrances and impeding ministers from attending.
Dozens of retired military personnel gathered in Riad El Solh Square, with more protesters joining them.
They set tires ablaze to protest against the cabinet session slated to address the 2025 budget, insisting on the fulfillment of their demands before proceeding and warning of further escalation if ignored.
A state of tension prevailed in Riad El Solh square as retired military personnel attempted to cross the iron barriers and approach the Grand Serail.
Retired Brigadier General George Nader asserted, “There will be no cabinet session today unless the demands of retired military personnel for a dignified life, on par with other sectors, are met.”
Only four ministers managed to reach the Grand Serail: Bassam Mawlawi, Caretaker Minister of Interior and Municipalities Johnny Corm, Caretaker Minister of Telecommunications, George Bouchikian, Caretaker Minister of Industry, and Caretaker Minister of Sports Georges Kallas. Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati arrived early in the morning to prepare for the 9 a.m. session.
The session’s agenda included 61 items, with the budget bill for the year 2025 to be discussed after the approval of the agenda.
