Why did the exchange rate of the dollar suddenly jump after the elections? Is it a reaction from manipulators of the exchange rate to the election results, or an attempt to compensate for the unprecedented money spent to buy votes? Indicators and on-ground realities confirm that the rise in the exchange rate is not coincidental, compounded by the government's failure to devise solutions for the financial and economic crisis and to shield the local arena from the impacts of external crises and their direct effects on Lebanon. With this reality, the test lies in the swift formation of a new government that begins the necessary work for recovery and reform, as it is the only pathway to save Lebanon.
Ali Darwish, a member of the Independent Center Bloc, stated in an interview with "Al-Anbaa" electronic news that "all details indicated we are heading towards an escalating crisis, whether regarding the remaining figures of the Central Bank and the inability to sustain support, or due to rising global prices, as there has been no fundamental treatment for them in past years. This means that the current council will face a significant challenge to prove itself, or else we will confront a major crisis that can only be remedied by continuing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund to secure some agreed-upon funds, and starting the implementation of the economic recovery plan, which has reached advanced stages, along with approving the general budget, and the necessity to translate these matters quickly as we face upcoming challenges." He added: "We are now at a crossroads; Lebanon is a country of balances, and if these balances are disturbed, the entire situation of the country will be compromised. For this reason, we rely heavily on the awareness of both the new and traditional MPs regarding these looming risks."
Darwish also commented on the decisions that may arise from the last Cabinet meeting convened today before the government transitions to caretaker status, noting the telecommunications minister's intention to resign if the tariff amendment is not approved, as he refuses to bear responsibility for the collapse of the telecommunications sector. Regarding the likelihood of Prime Minister Najib Mikati returning to form a new government, Darwish pointed out Mikati's “neutral stance in the parliamentary elections,” preferring to remain within the governance framework rather than becoming a party. He reaffirmed that the approach to assigning him to form the government depends first on the process of assignment and second on the potential for crafting solutions to the crisis.
