Source: Kataeb.org
Tuesday 21 January 2025 16:50:31
The Kataeb's political bureau held its weekly meeting under the chairmanship of party leader Samy Gemayel, and after discussing the recent developments, issued the following statement:
After years of crises, wars, and setbacks, the Kataeb Political Bureau believes that Lebanon now has a genuine opportunity to reclaim its sovereignty, restore independent decision-making, and embark on building a true state where all citizens are treated equally. This state would pave the way for a brighter future across various domains and revive Lebanon's historic role, provided this opportunity is wisely leveraged in favor of the nation and its people.
The Bureau considers that the recent developments in Lebanon, starting with the reactivation of institutional frameworks and their completion through the election of a President of the Republic and the democratic designation of a Prime Minister, have shifted the dynamics. These events demonstrate a resolute Lebanese determination to take charge and shape the country’s destiny.
It asserts that Lebanon, emerging from a devastating war, must, in alignment with the inaugural speech of the newly elected president and the commitments of the Prime Minister-designate, exclude from the ministerial statement any language—direct or indirect—that does not affirm the state's exclusive authority over arms and the right to defend the nation. Any wording that could be interpreted as delegating or relinquishing this responsibility to any other party must be unequivocally rejected.
The anticipated government is called upon to act decisively, dismantle all militias, strictly enforce the ceasefire agreement, and implement its provisions fully across all Lebanese territories, from the south to the north.
The Kataeb Political Bureau also urges the international community to pressure Israel to fulfill its commitment to withdraw its army from the Lebanese territories it continues to occupy, as the 60-day deadline nears its conclusion.
The Kataeb Party is deeply concerned that a certain group, known for using obstruction as a means to assert control, remains committed to the same disruptive tactics. This group continues to delay consultations and abstain from negotiations to improve its bargaining position over quotas—a practice that belongs to the past and is categorically rejected by the Lebanese people.
As such, the Bureau urges the Prime Minister-designate and the President of the Republic not to succumb to the persistent blackmail of the obstructionist duo, who demand ministries or positions outside the principles established by the inaugural speech. These principles require the application of equal standards to all parties, without exception, to ensure the government is not set up for early failure.