In an interview on MTV’s Sar al-Wa’et (It’s About Time) on Thursday, Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces (LF), shared cautious optimism about Lebanon’s future, particularly following the election of President Joseph Aoun and the nomination of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Geagea stressed that while Lebanon is not yet at its ideal state, “we are on the right path, and hope for the future is growing.”
Geagea placed a strong emphasis on the formation of the new government, describing it as a pivotal moment for the country. “This phase marks a turning point for Lebanon,” he said, underlining the significance of building a properly functioning state and ensuring that the new government adheres to Lebanon’s constitutional processes.
He revealed that the LF had already submitted a list of potential ministerial candidates, leaving the final selection up to Prime Minister Salam. “We are not interfering in the selection process; the decision is in the hands of the prime minister,” Geagea stated, emphasizing that the process must remain free from external interference, particularly that of the Shiite political parties.
Addressing the sensitive issue of the Ministry of Finance, Geagea clarified, “We are not opposed to assigning the Ministry of Finance to a representative of the Shiite community, but the Shiite community is not limited to just one political bloc.” He criticized the long-standing political figures who have traditionally dominated the Ministry, calling for a finance minister with no ties to Lebanon’s previous corrupt system, irrespective of political affiliation.
“The finance minister should be someone who has no links to the previous regime,” Geagea said, reaffirming the need for reform in this vital sector.
Geagea also addressed Hezbollah’s influence on the country’s politics, accusing the group of hindering Lebanon’s recovery. “Hezbollah’s media influence and its street presence with black shirts are part of what is obstructing Lebanon’s progress,” he asserted.
He made it clear that the new government must not reference the “Army, People, Resistance” triad – a slogan associated with the “resistance” axis – in its ministerial statement. Instead, Geagea insisted that the government’s work should align with the principles outlined in President Aoun’s inaugural speech.
Looking ahead, Geagea expressed confidence that the new government, once formed, would mark a significant improvement. “We believe this government will be better than its predecessors,” he affirmed, reiterating the importance of respecting Lebanon’s Constitution and ensuring that the procedures for government formation follow the guidelines set in Article 65.
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