The ongoing dispute between Baabda and the Serail seems like a dialogue of the deaf that neither advances nor hinders the bigger game. Yesterday, the Prime Minister-designate returned from an eight-day vacation, and it appears that there was no indication on his agenda to request a new meeting with President Aoun. It's not that he doesn't want a meeting; rather, he believes that the request for a meeting has already been made, and he is still awaiting a response from the palace to set this appointment.
From Prime Minister Mikati's side, there is an affirmation that he has done what is required of him and has presented an amended formula to the President during their second meeting without revealing what this amendment entails. Some believe it relates to the name of the minister proposed to take over the Energy Ministry, which the Prime Minister-designate insists should not go back to someone representing the "Free Patriotic Movement."
Meanwhile, the presidential palace considers that the President asked Mikati to amend the cabinet formation according to multiple criteria, and since Mikati has not contacted to inform about these amendments, why should an appointment be set for him?
Furthermore, what was leaked from the "Free Patriotic Movement" website about three ideas proposed by Aoun to Mikati to incorporate into his draft has not been confirmed by Baabda's circles outside the Movement nor by the Prime Minister's surroundings. These ideas are:
1. Mikati should submit a draft that is an exact copy of the caretaker government, which the President would sign and its decrees would be issued, so it could quickly represent before the Parliament to gain confidence to kick-start serious government work.
2. To reconsider the governmental draft in terms of new names, the distribution of ministries, and fair rotation based on clear criteria.
3. To maintain the governmental draft as prepared by Mikati, with the addition of six ministers of state, resulting in a techno-political government capable of meeting upcoming challenges.
These ideas have been in the minds of the Movement since the process of naming the Prime Minister-designate began, as sources following up suggest that its head, Gibran Basil, is trying to gauge the pulse on these options, believing that what suits him is the continuation of this government as he will not be able to secure his share in any new government. Additionally, being in a caretaker format may serve what is being promoted regarding the unconstitutionality of assuming the powers of the President in the absence of electing a successor, thereby applying the theory of his continued presence at the palace.
In summary, the situation appears as follows: Aoun will not set an appointment for Mikati. Mikati will not request an appointment. No drafts for government formations. Mikati will work on activating the government, and throughout this week, he will focus on living and everyday issues and how to resolve the public sector strike.
In brief: Nothing new; we are still in the same place...
