Lebanon’s designated Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, announced progress in forming a government amidst ongoing speculation regarding its composition and proposed candidates.

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Following a meeting with President Joseph Aoun, Salam reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a cabinet in line with constitutional procedures. He emphasized that no specific ministry is assigned to any parliamentary bloc and clarified that the Finance Ministry, like others, is not reserved for any particular group.

Representing the Sunni Muslim community tasked with forming the government, Salam expressed his firm opposition to sectarian allocations and underscored the importance of national unity. He advocated for a government focused on renewal and reform, designed to meet the expectations of the Lebanese people and earn their trust.

Salam faces mounting challenges as he works to finalize the government before the weekend deadline. Prolonged delays could weaken his short tenure ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections.

The consultations are marked by tensions among major Christian parties, the Free Patriotic Movement and the Lebanese Forces, as well as unstable Sunni representation and demands from the Shia duo Hezbollah and Amal.

Discussions, according to Al-Akhbar, remain centered on the ministerial declaration, particularly maintaining language aligned with the Taif Agreement concerning the right to resistance.

Lebanon’s Constitution requires the designated Prime Minister to conduct parliamentary consultations to select cabinet members. The President holds the right to amend or reject proposed names. Once approved, the President and Prime Minister will sign a decree to formalize the government, which must then issue a general policy declaration.

Parliament will convene to vote on confidence in the proposed cabinet—a mandatory step for the government to assume its functions.

Last week, President Aoun appointed Salam as Prime Minister, following support from 85 of the 128 members of Parliament. This marks the first government formation attempt of Aoun’s presidency, with Lebanon closely watching Salam’s efforts to navigate the country’s complex political landscape.

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