Hashem: Our Govt. Representative Must Be True to Consultative Gathering

MP Qassem Hashem, of the Consultative Gathering MPs, said the group has the right to have a representative in the government true to the causes of their group, the National News Agency reported on Saturday.

"The Consultative Gathering causes no problem with anyone. Its recognized right to having a representative in the awaited government is clear to all, as agreed upon in light of President Michel Aoun’s initiative," said Hashem.

He highlighted the importance of selecting the representative in cabinet exclusively from the Gathering members, in order to ensure true representation.

As for the stalled government formation over the past few hours, Hashem said, "It is incorrect to blame the Gathering for the delay,” noting the difficulty that arose on Friday related to the portfolios of trade, environment, information and justice.

“It is a proof that the formation was not ready and we are not to blame,” he said.

Asked about the possibility of the cabinet's formation over the weekend, Hashem said, "We are in Lebanon, the country of surprises...matters may be solved within an hour or less or may be complicated! It depends on contacts...consultations are underway on more than one level," he added.