Lebanon is on the brink of a political confrontation as today’s parliamentary session is expected to highlight Speaker Nabih Berri’s control over the legislature, with critics accusing him of overreach that undermines both the constitution and parliamentary norms.

The session has drawn particular attention for denying Lebanese expatriates the right to vote for all 128 parliamentary seats on equal terms with residents, a move that opponents describe as a violation of constitutional rights. Political observers said attending the session could be seen as a symbolic betrayal of hundreds of thousands of Lebanese living abroad, who have supported residents during times of national crisis.

In a parallel development, the Cabinet is scheduled to convene tomorrow at Baabda Palace to review a proposed amendment to the electoral law, submitted earlier by Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji. 

As of last night, Nidaa Al-Watan reported, 69 MPs were expected to attend today's Parliament session, but the number could shift if some deputies change their minds. Meanwhile, 49 MPs had confirmed their boycott, including members of the Lebanese Forces, Kataeb, Change Alliance, and Tajaddod blocs, as well as some from the National Moderation and Democratic Gathering blocs, and other absentees for various reasons.

The MPs planning to attend include lawmakers from the Amal and Hezbollah blocs, as well as some members of National Moderation, Democratic Gathering, Independent National, Consultative Parliamentary Meeting, alongside several independents, reformists, and members of National Consensus. 

Political analysts told Nidaa Al-Watan that the parliamentary session has become less about the expatriate voting issue and more about Berri’s management of legislative affairs.

“One can disagree politically, but institutions exist to resolve disputes through voting,” said one observer. “Berri’s insistence on disregarding the constitution, seizing legislative projects, and withholding them under pretexts represents a serious breach.”

Observers added that this is a constitutional confrontation, involving violations of the constitution, parliamentary rules, and established practices, which they say cannot be ignored.

Analysts warned that Berri could again refuse to place government bills on the agenda of future parliamentary sessions.

“This is a major crisis,” analysts said. “The State cannot operate according to individual whims; governance must follow the constitution. Today’s struggle is about enforcing the law, and both the president and the prime minister have central roles to play.”