Elie Marouni, an advisor to the head of the Kataeb Party and a former minister, voiced strong support on Tuesday for party leader Samy Gemayel’s call to convene a national truth and reconciliation conference, describing it as a bold and timely initiative aimed at healing Lebanon’s deep political rifts.

“This is a unique initiative through which Gemayel broke down barriers and overcame fear among all sides,” Marouni said in an interview on Télé Liban. “Some parties may feel threatened by the prospect of such a conference, but the Kataeb Party and its leader are committed to putting forward a unified national vision.”

Marouni stressed that the initiative can only succeed if accompanied by serious efforts to disarm non-state actors and work collectively to build a strong and functional state.

“This process is already underway on the ground, as the Kataeb Party continues to engage with all political factions,” he added.

As Lebanon prepares to mark the 50th anniversary of the start of its 15-year civil war, Marouni said the commemoration should serve as a moment of national introspection.

“We hope April 13 will be an opportunity for everyone to reflect, to let go of personal interests and narrow agendas,” he said.

Addressing the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for next month, Marouni underscored their importance in reviving grassroots democracy and strengthening local governance.

“Municipal elections are crucial because they bring development and essential services to the people,” he said. “We want Zahle to be among the best-managed towns in Lebanon.”

He noted that the Kataeb Party had given its members in Zahle full freedom to support whichever candidates they believe are most qualified.

“The decision was made to uphold democracy at the local level,” he said.

Marouni also welcomed the Cabinet’s recent approval of the explanatory memorandum for a new banking reorganization law, describing it as an important step toward economic recovery.

He further praised recent moves by ministers to submit asset declarations to Lebanon’s National Anti-Corruption Commission, calling it a positive step toward transparency.

“Transparency begins with accountability,” he said. “We hope that allegations of corruption within certain ministries will be investigated seriously.”

Marouni described the lifting of banking secrecy as “a critical step toward launching the long-awaited reform process,” and reiterated the Kataeb Party’s call for a comprehensive approach to rebuilding public trust and restoring Lebanon’s institutions.