Dr. Abdel Rahman Al-Bizri, the head of the National Vaccination Committee, announced his decision to withdraw his resignation from the presidency of the committee after several members of parliament received the vaccine in a manner inconsistent with the established vaccination plan.
In a press conference held at his home in Sidon, Al-Bizri stated that the recent events warranted attention. He expressed pride in the vaccination plan, which he believes is the most significant plan developed in Lebanon since the civil war and the Taif Agreement. He emphasized that it is entirely a Lebanese initiative, created by Lebanese individuals and managed by them as well. The plan has three objectives: to protect citizens, to safeguard the community, and to instill a sense of capability within the Lebanese people, demonstrating that Lebanon can do something exceptional even in challenging times.
Dr. Al-Bizri confirmed that the recent incident constitutes a violation that cannot be overlooked, as it represents an attempt to give preferential treatment to a particular group of people whom they respect and appreciate. He clarified that this is not a political matter, expressing gratitude for the swift legislation but insisting that all citizens should proceed to vaccination centers without exceptions.
Regarding the number of MPs who received the vaccine, Al-Bizri stated that he is unaware of the exact figures, having only heard from the media, which he noted is the primary source of information.
When asked about accountability for the incident, he assured that he holds himself responsible to the Lebanese people. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency, and quality in the vaccination plan.
Al-Bizri explained that the committee includes three oversight bodies, including the World Bank and the International Committee of the Red Cross, which had previously noted irregularities and communicated them to the World Bank.
He mentioned plans to form a committee led by the Minister of Health, including the head of the parliamentary committee and two doctors, to ensure there is no discrimination in the vaccination process. Al-Bizri pointed out that another oversight mechanism exists through the Court of Accounts, which monitors access to the vaccination platform.
He stated that they did not leave the plan without oversight and, in collaboration with the World Bank, can ensure adequate monitoring without needing international supervision. The goal is to demonstrate globally that Lebanon is capable of managing this issue.
In response to a question, he mentioned receiving two calls from a World Bank official regarding the breaches in the plan, and subsequently discussed how to address these issues with Saroj, the representative from the World Bank.
He reiterated that they are not in conflict with anyone but noted that these incidents disrupt the positive atmosphere. He emphasized the importance of restoring that positivity for the Lebanese citizens.
In response to a question about accountability, he acknowledged that an apology to the Lebanese people is insufficient. Although he does not consider himself responsible for the incident, he pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Health, the World Bank, and all centers involved to ensure such mistakes are not repeated, asserting that no one should lose their turn; instead, everyone should be valued equally, akin to how a true statesman acts like an ordinary citizen.
