Lebanon's Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rai affirmed on Sunday that any agreement on the formation of the new government must respect the constitution and the National Pact, adding that no party has the right to distort the country’s democratic system.
During Sunday’s Mass service in Bkirki, Rai called for the formation of a rescue government away from political and partisan affiliations, one that is capable of carrying out reforms imposed by the Ceder Conference.
“Our concern will grow should there be failure to name a new premier, and particularly if there is failure to form a non-political and technocrat salvation government,” he said.
On the decision by the Lebanese and Israeli governments to start direct talks over maritime borders, Rai stressed the need to have a strong state and a government capable of undertaking such discussions.
He noted that such talks are important if they lead to an agreement that enhances the authority of the Lebanese state, which should control the borders according to the 1949 line, run the oil and gas reserves and prevent their sharing and distribution among political leaders.
Rai also highlighted the devastation caused by the Beirut port blast and its repercussions, saying that the silence over its causes by the judiciary is worrisome.
"Was it aggression, an act of terrorism, or the result of negligence?... Those affected by the blast have the right to know these details and consequently ask for compensation," Rai noted.
