Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has formed a new government after over two years of interim leadership. This cabinet features appointments from business and finance sectors, aiming for reforms amidst economic crises. The government seeks to operate with reduced political faction influence, reflecting an international push for change while worrying about sectarian dynamics within Lebanon.
On Saturday, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam officially formed a new government, concluding over two years of caretaker governance. This step is critical as the country approaches the expiration of a ceasefire with Israel on February 18. Salam emphasized that no faction would be able to hinder the government’s operations, especially given Hezbollah’s diminished power in the current political landscape, shaped by international pressure.
The newly announced cabinet is characterized by its composition of non-political party members, aiming for a government focused on reforms amid widespread corruption allegations. However, approval from parliament is still needed, and the selection of ministers has involved consultations with various political leaders reflecting the country’s sectarian power-sharing.
The cabinet includes prominent figures from business and finance to tackle Lebanon’s pressing economic challenges. Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri brings experience as former UN envoy and minister in Lebanese governments, while Finance Minister Yassin Jaber, closely linked to Nabih Berri of the Amal Movement, is appointed to steer the critical finance portfolio during the ongoing economic crisis.
Economy Minister Amer Bsat, a key figure from BlackRock, will lead efforts to implement a recovery plan essential for unlocking a stalled $3 billion IMF support package. Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji, an experienced diplomat, and Social Affairs Minister Hanin Sayyed, involved with the World Bank on Lebanon’s crisis response, bolster the government’s economic credentials.
Other notable appointments include Energy Minister Joseph Saddi, who has led major consulting projects in energy sectors, and Environment Minister Tamara Zein, who previously served the National Council for Scientific Research. Notably, for the first time in years, the energy minister is not from a party traditionally aligned with Hezbollah, reflecting a shift in political dynamics in Lebanon.
Lebanon has faced significant political turmoil, with an extended period of caretaker governance leading to economic collapse. The new government’s formation is intended to revitalize administrative functions and respond to pressing crises. However, political maneuvering remains pervasive due to Lebanon’s sectarian political structure, which affects the selection of ministers and the overall governance process. The international community has called for governance reforms to restore trust and unlock financial aid critical for the country’s recovery from prolonged economic hardships. The new cabinet’s lineup represents a blend of technical qualifications and business acumen, aiming to establish a more accountable and effective government in a challenging political environment.
Lebanon’s new cabinet represents a strategic shift toward reform and recovery amidst a prolonged economic crisis. By appointing experienced technocrats rather than traditional political figures, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam aims to stabilize the government after years of inefficacy. The challenge remains to ensure that these appointees can operate effectively amid the pressures from entrenched political factions, particularly Hezbollah, and to secure international financial support vital for national recovery.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
