Berri Says FPM-LF Abstention Doesn’t Affect National Pact
Speaker Nabih Berri described the atmosphere of Najib Miqati’s expected designation as “positive” in light of “the announced positions of the blocs,” according to media sources.
He told ASharq al-Awsat newspaper, in remarks published Monday, that the refusal of the Free Patriotic Movement bloc and the Lebanese Forces bloc to vote for Miqati can’t be classified as disrespect for the 1943 National Pact -- an unwritten Christian-Muslim power-sharing agreement.
He considered that the National Pact is not reflected in the “designation” of the PM, but rather in the government “formation.”
“The terms of the National Pact must be taken into consideration during the formation process," Berri clarified.
He indicated that “approximately 20 Christian deputies not belonging to the two blocs (FPM and LF) may vote in favor of Miqati.”
Berri stressed that “now is the time to work on forming a government that will lead the country in these difficult circumstances,” considering that “President Aoun expressed positivity regarding Miqati.”
“No one can question the president's Christianity,” the parliament speaker added, downplaying the impact of the FPM’s abstention.
Source: Naharnet
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