Lebanon’s Parliament has lifted the immunity of former Industry Minister and current MP Georges Bouchikian, clearing the way for the judiciary to prosecute him on serious corruption charges, including embezzlement of public funds, bribery, and extortion.

The move grants judicial authorities full access to begin legal proceedings against Bouchikian, who is accused of taking bribes and financially blackmailing factories in return for work permits during his tenure as minister. The charges stem from an ongoing investigation into corruption at the Ministry of Industry, which has already led to the arrest of four ministry employees.

In comments to Asharq Al-Awsat, Lebanon’s Public Prosecutor at the Court of Cassation, Judge Jamal Al-Hajjar, welcomed Parliament’s decision.

“This step confirms the credibility and legitimacy of the judicial investigations into the Ministry of Industry,” he said. “The findings clearly implicate Bouchikian in the violations that occurred during his term in office.”

Judge Hajjar explained that the legal process will move forward as soon as his office receives formal written notice of the immunity waiver.

“Once officially notified, we will summon Bouchikian for questioning as a suspect,” he said. “Following his interrogation, we will proceed with filing charges and referring the case to an investigating judge, who will question him again and decide on further action.”

However, Bouchikian’s whereabouts may complicate the investigation. According to multiple reports, the former minister left Lebanon for Canada approximately two weeks ago. Judge Hajjar confirmed his office is working to verify these claims.

“If confirmed, an arrest warrant in absentia may be issued by the investigating judge,” he said. “That warrant would then be circulated through Interpol.”

While Lebanon does not have a formal judicial cooperation agreement with Canada, making extradition unlikely, Hajjar said Bouchikian could still face legal consequences.

“Canada is unlikely to comply with a request for extradition because Bouchikian is a Canadian citizen,” he noted. “However, he will become internationally wanted and can be arrested in any country he travels to.”

Judge Hajjar expressed hope that the case would serve as a wake-up call for public officials across Lebanon.

“This decision should be a lesson to anyone entrusted with public office,” he said. “Public funds are not free for the taking, and the rights of citizens are not to be violated. Accountability is coming, and no one is above the law.”