Today’s cabinet meeting failed to resolve any of the issues at the heart of the political crises plaguing the country.
Prime Minister Tammam Salam once again rejected to table for discussion the two central issues of the government voting mechanism, and the appointments of security officials.
Last Thursday, Defence Minister Samir Moqbel extended the terms of a number of security officials by personal decree; a move contrary to the democratic principles of Lebanon, the national pact and the constitution.
The decision to extend the terms of these officials was seen as a move by the Mustaqbal party and its allies to retain officials seen as favourable to their political positions rather than appoint new officials as required by due process.
Attempts to sideline discussion of these central issues by Prime Minister Salam and to move to other issues were unsuccessful and the Cabinet session was ended.
According to media reports, telecommunications Minister Butrous Harb, an ally of the Mustaqbal party, declared that he will no longer attend cabinet sessions.
Following the Cabinet session, Information Minister Ramzi Jreij stated that all ministers expressed their viewpoints on several issues and the cabinet was not to reach any decisions.
R.B 13/08/2015