Beirut: The Kataeb’s Political Bureau convened for its regular weekly meeting under the leadership of Party President Samy Gemayel. Following discussions on the latest political and social developments, the bureau released a comprehensive statement.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the Political Bureau lauds the efforts of the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister in maintaining Lebanon’s sovereignty across its full territory, despite increasing pressures that include sectarian intimidation and street mobilization. The bureau firmly rejects any attempts by Hezbollah’s Secretary-General to instruct the Lebanese populace on sovereignty while following directives from Tehran. It asserts that genuine national sovereignty is attainable only through the Lebanese people’s authority, as represented by their elected constitutional bodies. This vision necessitates the State’s exclusive control over arms and decisions regarding war and peace before other arrangements are considered.
The Political Bureau also issues a warning against future efforts to exploit public demonstrations against the State and its military forces, emphasizing that the military and security services operate according to the Constitution and legal frameworks. Such maneuvers are viewed as attempts to undermine State authority and weaken its institutions. The bureau condemns the ongoing campaign by the March 8 Alliance, which aims to intimidate and accuse its opposition, especially independent journalists advocating for a return to State authority and the rule of law.
Additionally, the bureau highlights the importance of advancing Lebanese-Syrian relations, starting with border demarcation and the ratification of a prisoner transfer agreement, excluding those convicted of terrorism or murder. This strategy should promote balanced and transparent relations based on mutual respect for each nation’s sovereignty.
The bureau further emphasizes that resolving Lebanon’s financial and economic crisis should not depend on increasing taxes on citizens. Instead, it advocates for improved management of State assets, strict measures against tax and customs evasion, and the reduction of smuggling through illegal crossings. These steps would boost State revenues, improving conditions for public employees and the military.
Finally, the Political Bureau calls for the rapid completion of a comprehensive survey of human resources and capabilities within the Lebanese administration. This initiative is seen as a crucial preliminary step toward meaningful reform that can restore the administration’s effectiveness and role.