Mikati says boycotting ministers can ask to be relieved of their duties
The five ministers who intend to boycott the caretaker cabinet “can ask to be relieved of their duties,” caretaker PM Najib Mikati has said, amid controversy over the legitimacy of his cabinet in the event of presidential vacuum.
“We would either replace them or acting ministers can take charge of their ministries,” Mikati added, in remarks to al-Jadeed TV, while ruling out that the five ministers would choose to boycott cabinet.
“If there a benefit from holding a cabinet meeting it will be held,” Mikati said.
Mikati also added that caretaker Energy Minister Walid Fayyad and caretaker Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib will accompany him Monday to Algeria to take part in the Arab Summit.
“I don’t intend to clash with anyone or to flex muscles. Our objective is to serve people and facilitate the work of public institutions,” Mikati added, noting that President Michel Aoun did not want him to form the government from the very beginning.
“I’m not seeking to take anyone’s place,” he stressed.
He also confirmed that he will not convene cabinet unless there is a state of utmost necessity.
Source: Naharnet
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