Lebanese government wins confidence vote in parliament
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The newly-formed Lebanese government attains the parliament's confidence as it passes the confidence vote with a stellar 95 votes in favor.
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In this photo released by the Lebanese Government, members of the new government pose for an official picture with the Lebanese President, Parliament Speaker, and Prime Minister, at the Presidential Palace in Baabda, Lebanon, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025 (AP)
The Lebanese Parliament granted confidence to Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government with a majority of 95 votes, while 12 MPs voted against, and four abstained.
The vote followed the conclusion of parliamentary discussions on the government's ministerial statement, which spanned 18 hours over two days, with 48 MPs participating in four consecutive sessions, both morning and evening.
After Prime Minister Salam responded to lawmakers' remarks, a roll-call vote was held, resulting in 95 votes of confidence. The Strong Lebanon bloc withheld its confidence from the government.
Following the session, Salam emphasized the importance of "strengthening the confidence of both citizens and lawmakers," stating, "When we say we want something in the ministerial statement, it is not a wish but a commitment."
He affirmed his adherence to the principles he set when forming the government and stressed the need to restore proper governance, where "a majority supports the government and a minority opposes it." He also expressed readiness to participate in accountability sessions and to heed constructive criticism.
Liberation of Lebanese territory
Salam reiterated his government's commitment to "liberating Lebanese territory from Israeli occupation" and pledged to continue rallying Arab and international support to pressure the Israeli regime into halting its violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
He noted that his government had launched a broad diplomatic campaign and would work to ensure the Israeli occupation ceases its breaches, withdraws from Lebanese land, and implements UN Resolution 1701. The ministerial statement, he added, affirmed Lebanon's right to self-defense in case of aggression.
Salam further stated that within weeks, appointments of qualified individuals to key positions would be completed, and efforts would proceed toward implementing administrative decentralization and establishing the National Commission for the Abolition of Political Sectarianism.
He also underscored the government's intent to engage in a "serious dialogue with Syrian authorities" regarding the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.
Addressing Lebanon’s prison conditions, Salam stressed the need for swift reforms, including distinguishing between convicted individuals and detainees, expediting trials, and ensuring prisoners' rights. He also committed to securing stable incomes for judges to improve their financial situation.
Beirut declares formation of new government
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun signed a decree approving the formation of the 24-minister government, after accepting the resignation of former Prime Minister Najib Mikati's government, the presidential office announced on Saturday.
Consequently, the Secretary-General for the Council of Ministers, Mahmoud Makkieh, announced the formation, which came as follows:
Yassine Jaber has been named the Finance Minister, Youssef Raji as the Foreign Minister, Ahmad al-Hajjar as the Minister of Interior, and Michel Mansa as the Defense Minister.
Moreover, Adel Nassar has been named the Minister of Justice, Mohammad Haidar as the Labor Minister, Joe Sadi as the Energy Minister, Fayez Rasamny as the Minister of Public Works, and Paul Marqas as the Minister of Information.
Tarek Metri has been appointed as deputy prime minister.
