Lebanese Parliament Sets Election Date as March 27
The Lebanese parliament sets the date for legislative elections as March 27 on a Tuesday session.
The Lebanese parliament on Tuesday voted to hold parliamentary elections on March 27.
The elections were expected to be held in May; however, they will be held earlier than usual after a Parliament session called by speaker Nabih Berri. The session began with the election of Parliament's office.
The session was held to elect two secretaries and three commissioners - that was followed by a legislative session to discuss legislation aiming at amending the electoral law and proposing a female quota.
Parliament announced the advancement of the elections the eve an IMF delegation is set to arrive in Lebanon to discuss a negotiation mechanism with the Lebanese government over an economic and financial recovery plan.
The negotiations between the two parties aim to reach an agreement that would allow Lebanon to receive aid from the International Monetary Fund in light of the severe economic crisis ravaging Lebanon.
The prime minister's office announced previously that President Michel Aoun appointed a delegation to negotiate with the IMF. The committee will be headed by Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh Al-Shami, and Finance Minister Youssef Khalil, and Economy Minister Amin Salam. It will also include Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh and two experts representing the President.
Once Lebanon elects a new parliament, Mikati's government will become a caretaker one until a new prime minister is elected and given a vote of confidence.