The much-anticipated parliamentary consultations, spearheaded by the president of the Republic to appoint a new prime minister, started at Baabda Palace on Monday morning. Members of Parliament are streaming in to partake in the discussions.
In a significant turn of events, Tajaddod bloc member MP Fouad Makhzoumi made an announcement on Monday. He stepped back from his candidacy for prime minister, throwing his weight behind Nawaf Salam instead. Makhzoumi's rationale is that he believes that the presence of multiple opposition candidates could prove counterproductive. Lebanon, he emphasized, is in dire need of a comprehensive transformation in its governance structure.
In a press release, Makhzoumi stated, "I withdraw my candidacy for the prime ministerial position to pave the way for a unified front around Judge Nawaf Salam, in alignment with all those advocating for change. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues and the political forces that have supported and entrusted me."
On Friday, the General Secretariat of the Presidency had announced that President Joseph Aoun will hold parliamentary consultations on Monday to appoint the next prime minister tasked with forming a new government.
According to a statement by the Presidency, the consultations will begin at Baabda Presidential Palace with a meeting between the president and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, followed by a session with Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab. The morning session will conclude with discussions involving independent MPs.
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