Naharnet

Wahhab Says 'Druze Hurdle' Back, Accuses Khawaja of 'Assassination' Bid

Ex-minister Wiam Wahhab on Wednesday announced that the so-called Druze obstacle “has returned,” nominating MP Talal Arslan for the “third Druze seat” and a “key ministerial portfolio.”

At a press conference, Wahhab linked his announcement to the Jahliyeh operation and to the support he received from Hizbullah, Arslan and other March 8 forces in the wake of the failed bid to arrest him.

“The equation has changed,” he said.

Wahhab also described the Internal Security Forces operation in Jahliyeh as an “assassination” attempt against him that was allegedly requested by the businessman Alaa al-Khawaja and “implemented” by Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri.

“There is blood now on Hariri’s hands, he has become embroiled in corruption and he is no longer eligible for the premiership,” Wahhab added, referring to the death of his bodyguard Mohammed Bou Diab during the ISF raid.

“During my conversations with the March 8 forces who offered me condolences, I sensed that they were pressing for the designation of someone other than Saad Hariri but the issue is in Hizbullah’s hands,” the ex-minister added.

He also stressed that “there is no animosity with the Progressive Socialist Party but rather political rivalry.”


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