'Imaginary Heroics Have Ended', Says Bassil after Power Plan Passed

Free Patriotic Movement chief and Foreign Minister Jebran Bassil on Monday boasted that the “real” electricity plan was approved by the government.

“They cost Lebanon years and they cost the treasury funds,” Bassil tweeted, referring to political parties that had since 2010 voiced objections and reservations over plans by two FPM ministers to reform the electricity sector.

Monday's plan was approved during the tenure of a third energy minister belonging to the FPM, Nada al-Bustani.

“What's important is that the imaginary heroics have ended and the real plan has been approved. It has remained the same from the very beginning and the rest is mere talk,” Bassil added.

“What's important is to see implementation without obstruction so that the promises can be fulfilled: 24/24 electricity and zero deficit,” the FPM chief added.

The plan was approved earlier on Monday with some amendments as it was decided that the Public Procurement Management Administration and a technical team from the Energy Ministry would carry out the tendering process.

Media reports said Bassil and the FPM ministers had sought to eliminate the PPMA role.