As Lebanon awaits the formation of its new government, the Kataeb Party has reiterated its position on the ongoing consultations, calling for clear and consistent standards in the selection process. Joelle Bou Abboud, a member of the party’s political bureau, emphasized that Kataeb’s stance is “clear and unequivocal.”

“Our position has been conveyed to the designated Prime Minister and the President of the Republic. We consider their accession to power a victory for both them and us. Therefore, our objective is to ensure the success of this presidential term and the government,” Bou Abboud said in an interview with Lebanon Debate. 

However, she stressed that success would depend on the strict application of principles and standards outlined by Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, which she said were in line with the president's inaugural speech.

“For them to succeed, the standards outlined by Nawaf Salam must be effectively implemented,” she noted, warning against selective application of these criteria as certain political factions could attempt to impose their candidates to gain leverage.

“As long as these standards are applied fairly, there will be no issue. However, if their application is selective, the situation will change,” she said.

She pointed to past incidents where the political process was obstructed, particularly by Hezbollah and Amal, referred to as the "Shiite duo."

“This selectivity could manifest in the imposition of the duo’s candidate as part of an attempt at political blackmail—similar to what happened in the previous presidential election when they insisted on their candidate, Sleiman Frangieh,” she said.

She also called on the Prime Minister-designate to prevent the Finance Ministry from being used as a tool for political obstruction.

“The Shiite duo is known for employing obstructionist tactics in past governments, monopolizing representation of the Shiite sect,” she added.

On the anticipated composition of the government, Bou Abboud stated that Kataeb would withhold judgment until the official announcement.

“We are awaiting the official lineup. Many names are still being circulated, but we will not take any position until the final composition is announced,” she said, assuring that the Kataeb Party maintains open communication with Salam.

“We maintain ongoing communication with Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, have no issues with him, and continue to convey our viewpoints. Once the final government lineup is disclosed, we will declare our stance accordingly,” she said.

Addressing recent speculation about cabinet appointments, Bou Abboud suggested that the Prime Minister-designate was keeping his selections confidential.

“Nawaf Salam has clarified that the names being circulated in the media are inaccurate. He appears to be keeping his choices confidential and may even surprise us positively,” she said, urging the Lebanese not to lose hope.

“We must remember the significant political victories that have been achieved—from the downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime to the election of General Joseph Aoun as President, his inaugural address, and the designation of Nawaf Salam as Prime Minister,” she said.

“We have secured many victories, and we must not see ourselves as defeated,” Bou Abboud concluded.