Lebanese Parliament Speaker Rejects Pressure and Maintains Session Date

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Rejects Pressure and Maintains Session Date
The Parliament Speaker's insistence on holding the election session as scheduled reflects a desire to break the political stalemate that has persisted since the presidential vacancy
December 26, 2024, 10:51 pm

البرلمان اللبناني

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri reviewed his firm position on the presidential election session scheduled for January 9, emphasizing that it is "confirmed on schedule and I will not accept pressure from anyone," amid the ongoing presidential vacancy that deepens the country's political crisis.

Parliamentary sources told "Al-Arabiya.net" and "Al-Hadath.net" that his statements come in response to local and external demands to postpone the session to allow more time for consultations, at a time when Lebanon is facing increasing security and political challenges on its southern borders.

Berri clarified: "Note that the election session will be broadcast on all Lebanese, Arab, and international media outlets for everyone to watch the election process," in a move reflecting his commitment to ensuring transparency in the electoral process.

Berri affirmed his commitment to the constitutional framework, stating: "The session will be conducted according to constitutional rules without bypassing any of its provisions," indicating his readiness to hold consecutive sessions even if they continue for four consecutive days.

He reviewed his efforts to complete the presidential requirement, emphasizing the necessity of reaching the legal quorum of 86 deputies, and calling on all parliamentary blocs to bear their historic responsibilities at this sensitive juncture.

Berri addressed Israeli violations in southern Lebanon, affirming that these breaches of Resolution 1701 will not go unanswered, while emphasizing his rejection of any attempts to impose a presidential candidate on the 128-member parliament.

Regarding the role of the "Quintet" group comprising the United States, Saudi Arabia, France, Egypt, and Qatar, Berri stated: "We receive the required support from all these countries, but we as Lebanese must first fulfill our required duties," indicating the importance of Lebanon's internal role in resolving the crisis.

Berri concluded his statements by confirming his absolute rejection of pressure politics, calling on parliamentary blocs to bear their responsibilities in the upcoming election session, which comes amid highly complex regional and international circumstances.

Levant-Agencies

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