The beginning of a new chapter for building the rule of law and achieving justice for the Lebanese
In his first statement from Baabda Palace, President-designate Nawaf Salam said: “I thank the Lebanese for their trust and entrusting me to fulfill their aspirations to build a state of law and institutions, and my assignment is a call to realize the aspirations of change and build a just state for all the Lebanese.”
He added: “It is time to start a new chapter, and we must preserve their right to reconstruction. This is not just a promise, but a commitment for the return of our people to their homes.”
He pointed out that “there is no security or stability for our country without working to extend the authority of the Lebanese state over its entire territory through its own power.” He stressed that “a capable and effective state must be established that is based on the principle of the rule of law and embodies respect for human rights in all fields.”
He continued, saying: “We must work to implement the provisions of the Taif Agreement, evaluate what has been implemented, and work to fill the gaps.” He explained, “We cannot talk about this before we work to do justice to the victims of Beirut Port and work to achieve justice in this file.”
He said: “It is a new chapter, and experience has taught us that the only real bet is to bet on each other and to bet on building our institutions.” Enough of the missed opportunities, enough of the experiences we went through during which some people felt unfair, excluded, and deprived.”
Regarding his political practice, the President-designate affirmed that “with my ability and political practice, I am not one of the people of exclusion, but rather one of the people of unity, and my hands are extended to everyone, and I will ensure that not a single citizen feels excluded and unfair.” He indicated that he would begin work “in cooperation with His Excellency the President, and my hope is that we will work to build a new Lebanon.”
