MP Melhem Khalaf, leader of the "For Change" bloc of independent MPs, has told TASS that the involvement of external parties in resolving the political crisis in Lebanon does not align with the nation's interests. He believes that instead of fulfilling their constitutional duty and electing the President of the Republic, Lebanese politicians are seeking mediation from French and Qatari diplomats.
"Our leaders are inviting foreigners to resolve our internal problems, and this is impacting our country's sovereignty," - the interviewee remarked. - "In truth, Lebanon does not require international supervision or mediation from France and Qatar." Khalaf placed blame on the ruling class for the ongoing political stalemate, alleging that they are "delaying elections by using the pretext of the necessity to reach a consensus on the future president's candidacy."
"The ruling party leaders are engrossed in secretive negotiations, with little regard for the state's interests and reputation," - the MP remarked. - "While they publicly speak of their commitment to preserving interfaith harmony, their true aim is to secure advantageous terms for themselves and put in office a figure who will further their own interests."
Lebanon's top government position has remained vacant since October 31, 2022, when General Michel Aoun's six-year term as president concluded, and he left the Baabda presidential palace. On June 14, members of parliament made their 12th attempt to elect a new president. However, none of the candidates managed to secure the required number of votes for victory, which is 65 out of 128.
Khalaf emphasized that his parliamentary bloc supports the idea of conducting fair elections without preconditions or secret agreements. He stressed that the president to be elected should possess the capability to uphold the constitution and protect the interests of the state.
Call for dialogue
On August 31, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri initiated a dialogue between representatives of the main political forces and parliamentary factions as a prerequisite for electing a new president. He argued that given the dysfunction of state institutions, consensus must be reached before proceeding to the polls.
From September 12 to 15, French President's Special Envoy for Resolving the Lebanese crisis Jean-Yves Le Drian hold in a series of meetings with political leaders in Beirut, aiming to broker agreements that could facilitate upcoming elections.
Qatari diplomat Abu Fahd Jassem Al-Thani conducted a mediation mission in Beirut from September 25 to October 1. According to Hassan Nasrullah, the leader of the Shiite Hezbollah party, no tangible outcomes have emerged from these diplomatic efforts.
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Based on materials from TASS