FPM Says Concessions Made to Include LF in Government

The Free Patriotic Movement said the party has made several “concessions” so that no political party, mainly the Lebanese Forces, gets excluded from the government, al-Joumhouria daily reported on Friday.

“The FPM backs the formation of a national unity government. We have exerted efforts in that direction making all possible sacrifices and concessions so that no political party gets excluded from the government, mainly the Lebanese Forces,” sources close to Foreign Minister, FPM chief Jebran Bassil told the daily.

Reports have said that Bassil was responsible for the Cabinet formation delay by denying the Lebanese Forces the ministerial portfolios and shares they seek.

The formation process has made significant progress in recent days amid concessions from several parties.

Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri said Thursday that the new government “will be formed this week and not next week.”

Hariri was tasked with forming the new government on May 24. His mission was hampered by political wrangling over shares, especially over the Christian and Druze seats.