Mikati optimistic on govt. formation, says president election more important
Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati has expressed optimism over the cabinet formation file, saying he is working for this goal, as he stressed that “what’s more important is the election of a president.”
Mikati added, in an interview with the al-Intichar news portal, that his relation with President Michel Aoun is “good.”
Denying accusations that he does not want to form a new government, the PM-designate noted that he would not have submitted an immediate line-up to Aoun had he not wanted to see the new government formed.
“Contrary to what some have claimed, this line-up is not sacred and it can be amended in agreement with the president,” Mikati said.
As for Free Patriotic Movement chief Jebran Bassil’s threat that his camp will not accept that Mikati’s caretaker government rule the country in the event of a presidential vacuum, the PM-designate said: “Our priority is to work on rescuing the country and forming a government. As for debate and tirades, they have their fans, and let them say what they want, seeing as the facts are clear and the constitution in clear.”
Asked about the supportive statement issued by Dar al-Fatwa, Mikati said he knew of it after its issuance while lauding its content.
“Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Daryan exerted efforts to issue a calm and objective statement, whereas a large number of members wanted it to be strong-worded and more direct in responding to the Presidency,” the PM-designate added.
As for the sea border demarcation file, Mikati said the issue will be finalized despite the lengthy deliberations.
Source: Naharnet
| Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. | https://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/292235 |