PSP hails Berri and Mikati, says Jumblat mediation resolved clock row

The Progressive Socialist Party on Monday lauded Speaker Nabih Berri and caretaker PM Najib Mikati for “positively responding” to a mediation by PSP chief Walid Jumblat regarding the row over daylight saving time in the country.

In a statement, the PSP hailed the “responsible stance” of the two leaders, saying Jumblat’s efforts led to “ending the dispute that occurred over timing adjustment and the subsequent dangerous aggravation of the sectarian rhetoric.”

“The party reiterates its call for shunning every sectarian and provocative incitement or tense responses that could further push the country to the inferno of danger, amid the current major crises that requires quick and wise solutions,” the PSP added.

Mikati had earlier in the day announced Cabinet’s reversal of an unpopular decision made by his office to delay the start of daylight saving time by a month, saying Monday the Cabinet decided to implement the change in two days.

Mikati’s comments came after the government’s initial decision earlier this month was widely criticized around the country with many, including the country’s largest church, saying they would not abide by the decision.

Last week, the government said it would delay the start of daylight saving time by a month until the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. That led to mass confusion in a country already experiencing the worst economic and financial crisis in its modern history.

In some cases, the debate took on a sectarian nature, with many Christian politicians and institutions, including the small nation’s largest church, the Maronite Church, rejecting the move.