Justice Minister Adel Nassar outlined significant judicial reforms and reiterated the imperative of establishing the rule of law, underlining that this means the state alone must hold arms. 

Speaking at a press conference to update the public on the Ministry of Justice’s work since his appointment and to discuss the current situation, Nassar stressed unwavering commitment to important reforms, including advances in the independence of the judiciary and critical judicial appointments. These steps have contributed to the regular functioning of the judiciary, which is actively handling sensitive cases such as the ongoing investigations into the Beirut port explosion and the reopening of the assassination case of Lokman Slim.

He described the judiciary’s work as calm, sober, and serious.

Addressing Lebanon’s overcrowded prisons, Nassar noted that the ministry, in coordination with relevant authorities, has established a courtroom inside Roumieh prison. This courtroom is operating regularly and effectively serves its purpose, helping alleviate logistical challenges in handling cases.

Nassar further detailed ongoing efforts in judicial reform, highlighting cooperation with French counterparts on the Judicial Institute, which is essential for preparing future judges.

He confirmed continued progress in digitalizing the justice system, in partnership with Telecom Minister Kamal Shehadeh, as part of the fight against corruption. He reiterated the importance of digitalization as a core anti-corruption measure and praised Shehadeh’s collaboration on this front as a sign of healthy inter-ministerial cooperation.

Regarding transparency and the FATF (Financial Action Task Force) compliance requirements, a committee was formed to draft a report, which will pave the way for implementing necessary steps. The judicial inspection body has become fully operational across Lebanon to ensure judges perform their duties according to established procedures.

On the issue of arms outside state control, Nassar was unequivocal: “Weapons in the hands of non-state actors are unacceptable. There can be no talk of building a state while illegal arms exist outside state control. Reforming institutions starts with a state that meets all standards.”

He revealed that efforts to disarm areas south of the Litani River are underway, with significant progress made and broad confidence in President Joseph Aoun's efforts. Yet Nassar insisted that Lebanon cannot advance with reforms or state-building while armed groups operate beyond institutions.

Nassar elaborated on the judicial independence law, acknowledging its delayed approval but outlining its long trajectory—from initial drafts within the Administration and Justice Committee, discussions at the Justice Forum with all judicial stakeholders, to the Ministry’s recent coordinated efforts to finalize the draft law.

Regarding judicial appointments, Nassar acknowledged the chronic delays Lebanon faced but noted progress: appointments have been made for all members of the Higher Judicial Council, the Inspection Authority, presidents of courts of cassation, and courts of appeal across all regions. The Higher Judicial Council is now focused on drafting judicial formation plans, he assured. 

Nassar emphasized that appointment criteria were objective and free from politicization or quota systems, aimed at restoring the judiciary’s role and rebuilding citizen trust.

“The key to restoring confidence between the state and the citizen is trust in the judiciary,” he said.

He rejected political interference in judicial matters and insisted that judicial files must not be exploited for political ends. The ministry’s role, according to Nassar, is to support judges and create the conditions necessary for the judiciary’s smooth functioning, without intervening in investigations.

On the topic of the newly established courtroom inside Roumieh prison, Nassar described the situation as “more than acceptable,” with a significant number of trials concluded there despite initial logistical challenges, which were overcome through joint efforts between the Ministries of Justice and Interior, judges, and lawyers.

Nassar also touched on ongoing cooperation with France, reporting positive discussions during his recent visit to Paris and confirming a French delegation’s forthcoming visit to Lebanon to help activate the Judicial Institute, an essential pillar for future judicial training.

The minister announced the organization of a conference to foster dialogue between the media and the judiciary, emphasizing that collaboration is necessary to protect freedom of expression. While journalists have the right to critique judicial decisions, they must refrain from attacking judges personally, focusing solely on the decisions themselves.

Responding to a question about the proposed appointment of Judge Zaher Hamadeh as the new Financial Prosecutor, and Nassar's reported threat to resign in retaliation, the minister clarified that judicial appointments are made upon his proposal and cabinet decision. Discussions about Hamadeh’s appointment began in April and were conducted professionally within judicial frameworks. Nassar insisted on keeping debates free from politicization or “fictitious heroics.” He acknowledged political support from various figures, including Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel, but preferred to keep the matter away from political disputes.

He stressed that his approach to appointments remains unchanged: consultations with senior judges and lawyers, with all appointments based strictly on merit, avoiding political affiliations. No judge was appointed due to political ties, especially not to the Kataeb Party, he said.

While he praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri for his concern for institutions, Nassar affirmed that the political quota system has now been set aside. Nassar emphasized that appointing the Financial Prosecutor is not a political battle, but rather a selection of the right person for the right position, away from political bickering. 

On the appointment of Yussef Gemayel as President of the Shura Council, Nassar explained that the same impartial criteria were applied. After consulting senior judges both from the Shura Council and the regular judiciary, he explained, they faced two options: appoint someone from the regular judiciary, which was done previously but was unpopular and upset many judges, or appoint a candidate from within the Shura Council. Yussef Gemayel, from Zahle, emerged as the consensus candidate. Despite initial hesitation due to his family name, Gemayel was deemed politically neutral, the minister pointed out.

Regarding sectarian balance, Nassar said it is natural to seek such balance in appointments, but no position is reserved exclusively for any single sect. The emphasis remains on selecting the most suitable candidate. He believed that Speaker Berri shares this view and that judicial decisions should never be compromised.

Nassar dismissed fears that judicial appointments might be delayed, saying Speaker Berri is committed to the public interest and the judiciary’s integrity. He stressed that attacks on judges constitute a crime that could amount to “moral assassination,” and that judicial inspection must address any irregularities free from politics or quotas.

He concluded that a Justice Minister must protect the judiciary from unacceptable personal attacks and political exploitation, which harm judicial independence. Removing politics from judicial affairs and ensuring the best possible appointments are paramount, he affirmed.

On the probe into the 2020 Beirut port blast, Nassar affirmed that investigating judge Tarek Bitar is fulfilling his duties, with all relevant parties summoned. He urged patience to let the judiciary operate independently and welcomed the French team’s assistance in the investigation.