Nawaf Salam, the New Prime Minister of Lebanon: A Shift Towards Reform Amid Political Crisis
Salam will take office in a context where the need for reform is more urgent than ever. His reformist profile and political independence have generated expectations among sectors of society clamoring for a change in the way the country is governed. Jan 13, 2025 Photo: EFE
January 13, 2025 Hour: 4:52 pm
During these meetings, Salam managed to secure the support of 84 out of 128 members of the House, while 35 did not nominate any candidates and nine supported former Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
Related:
Lebanon: Army Chief is Elected as the New President
In a significant development for Lebanese politics, the parliamentary blocs have chosen Nawaf Salam as their new prime minister, just four days after the appointment of Joseph Aoun as President of the Republic. This ended a two-year hiatus in state leadership.
Salam, who currently serves as President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), is seen as an independent and technocratic candidate, representing a break with the networks of clientelism that have dominated the country’s political system.
Salam’s appointment comes at a critical time for Lebanon, which has been facing a deep economic and social crisis. His selection followed an extensive round of consultations with all deputies and legislative blocs, which took place from morning until late afternoon.
During these meetings, Salam managed to secure the support of 84 out of 128 members of the House, while 35 did not nominate any candidates and nine supported former Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
Salam will take office in a context where the need for reform is more urgent than ever. His reformist profile and political independence have generated expectations among sectors of society clamoring for a change in the way the country is governed.
The mission ahead will not be easy, given the legacy of instability and corruption that has characterized Lebanese politics in recent years.
The immediate challenge for Salam will be to form a government capable of addressing the multiple crises facing Lebanon, from economic recession to a lack of basic services.
With his appointment, Nawaf Salam has the opportunity to set a new course for Lebanon, but his success will depend on his ability to navigate a complex political environment and build the necessary consensus to implement the reforms that people have been waiting for.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE
