Lebanon

Council of Muftis Warns Against Interference with Prime Minister's Authority

Council of Muftis Warns Against Interference with Prime Minister's Authority

The Council of Muftis expressed its hope that the "Saudi-Iranian agreement will serve as a basis for purposeful brotherly relations founded on mutual respect and cooperation, as well as non-interference in domestic affairs and national interests, or incitement to harm these interests." The Council believes that "the unity of Muslims, despite their differing sects, fundamentally relies on holding firmly to the rope of Allah and the tradition of His Prophet. This unity is our common path toward building better relationships and a brighter future."

The Council warned against the continued presidential vacuum that is becoming almost synonymous with every presidential election, which exposes Lebanon to unnecessary risks and burdens it with costs that it can no longer afford politically, morally, economically, socially, and developmentally. "Nature does not recognize a vacuum, and thus it warns against hybrid initiatives aimed at filling it outside the constitution and the realm of national consensus. The vacancy in the presidency is a serious negative phenomenon. Worse and more dangerous is the attempt to fill it through initiatives outside the constitution and at the expense of national consensus."

The Council condemned the continuous campaigns against the Prime Minister's office and the "fabrication of new discord under the pretext of authority." It called on everyone to return to the constitution and adhere to the Taif Agreement, rejecting any interference with the powers of the Prime Minister under any title or pretext, affirming that the Prime Minister adheres to the constitution, the Taif Agreement, and the applicable procedures in every step he takes to alleviate the suffering of the country and its citizens.

The Council, which convened at the Dar al-Fatwa under the presidency of Lebanese Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Deryan, discussed internal organizational matters and the situation in Lebanon and the region, considering a comprehensive plan to enhance the work of religious authority in Lebanon, particularly in the areas of religious and national awareness.

After the meeting, Mufti Deryan and the new council visited the governmental palace and met with Prime Minister Najib Mikati, in the presence of Interior and Municipalities Minister Bassam Mawlawi, Economy and Trade Minister Amin Salam, and Secretary-General of the Cabinet Judge Mahmoud Makiya.

Mikati reiterated his call for a "constructive dialogue with all national components for the sake of national unity and cooperation among all its citizens." For his part, the Mufti praised "the efforts and endeavors made by Prime Minister Mikati in addressing all the political, economic, and living issues faced by citizens." He emphasized "the importance of consensus and cooperation among the political parties for the sake of Lebanon and the Lebanese people."

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