Has the process of thawing the ice that has accumulated on the path between the Grand Serail and Baabda Palace begun, setting the stage for a possible visit by Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati to President Michel Aoun upon the former's return from abroad next week? Likely, yes, say informed political sources to "Al-Markaziah." The indicators recorded in recent hours suggest that the wave of escalation between the two camps and their sources has receded, replaced by statements carrying a scent of "calm," devoid of accusations of obstruction, delay, and hindrance.
The media office of the Presidency issued a statement yesterday afternoon confirming, after days of back and forth concerning Mikati's request for an audience at the palace which was not granted, that "regarding the appointment requested by the Prime Minister-designate, the truth is that the President has never closed the doors of the palace to anyone, let alone to the Prime Minister-designate. The reality is that the President was waiting for a new approach from the Prime Minister-designate in light of the observations he had made on the proposed cabinet formation to fortify it in light of the expected tasks from the upcoming government amidst the challenges and critical situations affecting the country, which cannot tolerate a prolonged caretaking government and misguided bets."
Moreover, the Prime Minister-designate contacted President Aoun before his trip and informed him that he would visit him upon his return.
The statement added, "It is unfortunate to imply in some writings and statements as though the Presidency is disrespecting the office of the Prime Minister. This matter has never been reflected in the positions of the President, neither in words nor in practice. Therefore, relying on 'surrounding' individuals and 'whisperers' does not align with reality, as what President Aoun intends to declare is said clearly and directly without ambiguity, either directly from him or through the media office at the Presidency."
On the side of the Grand Serail, following a war of statements between him and Mirna Chahal, and Baabda behind her, there was a welcoming response from Mikati to what was issued from Baabda, emphasizing a commitment to partnership in the formation and the role and powers of the President therein. Mikati appreciated in a statement issued by his office "what was mentioned in the third paragraph of the presidential statement regarding disentangling from the abuses committed by some close to the President, a matter not hidden from anyone. He also appreciates the President’s commitment to not disrespect the office of the Prime Minister."
He continued, "Regarding the President's constitutional right, the President-designate announced that he presented a cabinet formation that reflects the outcome of his communications, and the discussion of it began with the esteemed President. Thus, the President-designate has never claimed that he wants to deny the President the right to express his opinion and observations, which required clarification."
It seems, therefore, that pressures from some international parties and the deterioration of living conditions domestically have done their part, and the hearts between the two key players in the formation have been cleared. Mikati will visit the palace upon his return, but that does not mean at all that the government will see the light, the sources conclude.
