Oghassapian: Hurdles to Form Cabinet Result of Concerns over 'Christian Agreement'
MP Jean Oghassapian said Wednesday that not all political parties were content with the understanding reached between the two Christian parties, Lebanese Forces and the Free Patriotic Movement, which explains the reactions of some, including Speaker Nabih Berri's.
The MP said the hurdles hampering the distribution of ministerial portfolios and the reactions of Speaker Nabih Berri could be the result of “susceptibility” generated after the Christian understanding.
“It is not easy for political parties to accept it mainly because of concerns of the great influence planned to be given for the LF, and the fears to begin a presidential term under a strong president,” Oghassapian told VDL (93.3).
In January, LF chief Samir Geagea and founder of the FPM Michel Aoun reached an understanding that ended over two decades of bitter ties between the war-time foes.
Oghassapian warned that differences over the distribution of portfolios would delay the formation of the cabinet until next year, and would gravely reflect on the new term of President Michel Aoun.
He wondered if the goals from the fight over portfolios aim to keep Lebanon “on hold” until the regional developments clear out.
On the other hand, the MP appeased the fears and said that Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri and President Michel Aoun have agreed to provide a space for convergence for all political parties and not to overstep the Taef accord.
The lawmaker called on the political factions to speed up the government formation "if honest intentions exist".
Michel Aoun's election as president and Hariri's appointment as premier-designate have raised hopes that Lebanon can begin tackling challenges including a stagnant economy, a moribund political class and the influx of more than a million Syrian refugees.
In a sign that Hariri's mission as premier might not be easy, Hizbullah's MPs declined to endorse him during binding parliamentary consultations.
Hariri is likely to struggle with his government's policy statement, which will have to make reference to Israel, as well as the war in Syria, both potential flashpoints with Hizbullah.
