Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel emphasized on Sunday that genuine partnership in Lebanon requires equality and an end to exclusion and partisan privileges.

“No to exclusion, no to privileges, and yes to equality-based partnership,” Gemayel declared, stressing that true partnership cannot exist without equality.

In an interview with Al Jadeed, Gemayel addressed the current situation in southern Lebanon, describing it as a blend of hope and sorrow. While mourning the loss of lives and the devastation that swept through the border area, he praised the solidarity displayed by Lebanese civilians, particularly those who reclaimed occupied lands through unarmed demonstrations.  

“This act of unarmed resilience proved to be more effective than Hezbollah’s arsenal of weapons, rockets, and drones,” Gemayel argued.  

He emphasized that non-state arms only bring calamities, whereas actions led by the Lebanese Army yield tangible results.  

The Kataeb leader reiterated his demand for the state to assume full responsibility for the south, asserting that the only viable path forward is for the state to take complete control and for all parties to place their trust in state institutions.  

“Decisions concerning the south can no longer be made unilaterally,” he said.  

Gemayel also criticized the longstanding “army, people, and resistance” formula, labeling it both illogical and obsolete.  

“The state must be the sole authority. We need one unified state, not a three-way formula,” he insisted.  

He called for Lebanon’s leadership, embodied by President Joseph Aoun, to be fully empowered to perform its duties, including negotiations to secure the country’s rights.  

"We believe that Lebanon now has leadership under the President of the Republic. We are in a phase of rebuilding authority, and therefore, the political authorities and the President must be allowed to work to ensure a safe return for the southerners without any loss of lives."

“If public mobilization is required, it should be organized under state supervision, with all Lebanese united under the national flag,” he added, saying that “popular resistance” should be managed and authorized by the state and led by the army.  

“Defending Lebanon cannot be the exclusive right of one group. The decision must emanate from the state, and actions must be directed by the army,” he stated. “We have learned the hard way where unilateral decisions can lead us.”

Reflecting on his speech during the presidential election session, Gemayel emphasized that it was intended to mark the beginning of a constructive new phase. He reaffirmed his opposition to exclusion, stressing that no community should bear the consequences of the reckless actions of a few or shifts in Lebanon's balance of power.  

"The country must be built through collective effort. True partnership requires equality, without privileges for anyone, and with all parties operating under the rule of law," he stated.

On the issue of government formation, Gemayel expressed cautious optimism despite ongoing disputes over cabinet portfolios.  

“At worst, the Prime Minister-designate will present his lineup even if there is opposition,” he said, urging political factions to ease their demands to enable swift government formation and the resumption of state functions.  

He criticized the political deadlock caused by provisions in the Doha Agreement, including the “third signature” veto power and “consensual representation,” which he argued paralyze governance.  

“We cannot allow governmental privileges or veto powers to derail the process. All Lebanese must be equal in rights and duties,” he asserted.  

Commenting on government formation talks, Gemayel described his meeting with Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam as positive. He highlighted that the Kataeb Party is not making excessive demands but is simply seeking representation that aligns with its reformist and sovereign stance over the past decade.

"The country needs rebuilding and state institutions must be restored. Ministerial portfolios are of secondary importance," he stated.

Gemayel revealed plans to propose a “conference for truth and reconciliation” to President Aoun, emphasizing the need to address widespread mistrust among political factions.  

“Every party fears that the other is plotting to eliminate them. Such a conference will tackle these concerns, acknowledge sacrifices, and help us build a future free from past mistakes,” he said.  

He also criticized Hezbollah and the Amal Movement for monopolizing Shiite representation in Lebanon, arguing that many Shiites who oppose the duo had made their voices heard during parliamentary elections.  

“No one group can claim to represent an entire sect. There are Shiites in Lebanon who do not support Hezbollah or Amal, and they deserve inclusion in the political process,” Gemayel stated.  

Concluding, Gemayel reaffirmed the Kataeb Party’s commitment to supporting state institutions and President Aoun’s term.  

“Our priority is to stand by the President and assist him in this challenging mission,” he said. “No to exclusion, no to privileges. Yes to equality and partnership among all Lebanese under the roof of the state and the Lebanese flag. This is the only path forward.”