The Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) has criticized what it deemed a “highly arbitrary and detrimental decision” taken by the country’s Foreign Minister, Abdallah Bou Habib, with the support of top officials, to recall Lebanon’s representative to the United Nations.
The party said in a statement on Tuesday that “the decision-making process among high-ranking officials in Lebanon is undermining national interests and the integrity of state institutions.” It alleges that such decisions are driven by “behind-the-scenes maneuvering and mutual interests, rather than the best interests of the nation.”
The controversial decision in question pertains to the withdrawal of Lebanon’s delegate to the United Nations, Jeanne Mrad, who opposed a decision to cancel coordination between UN forces stationed in South Lebanon and the Lebanese government. She argued that this formula would undermine national sovereignty.
Following her removal, Fadi Al-Hashem, reportedly associated with one of the influential factions, was appointed to replace her. The manner in which this transition took place raised concerns about transparency and adherence to established norms and principles.
In the statement, the PSP raised questions about the motivation behind the decision and the ease with which it was executed. The party noted the irony that while the majority of government functions and essential appointments remain paralyzed, this decision was swiftly implemented, further raising doubts about the priorities of Lebanon’s political leadership.
The party warned that such actions “contribute to the erosion of the state’s credibility and integrity.”
