Information suggests that the amendments to the current government in the decree for the formation of the next government will not be limited to a specific number of known portfolios, such as finance, displaced persons, and economy. Instead, the scope of change will extend to include several ministers whom the leader of the Free Patriotic Movement, MP Gibran Bassil, will nominate from his shared quota with the President. MTV has learned that many have shown interest in joining the government in the past few weeks, with some reaching out to Bassil to express their desire for ministerial positions, though none have received promises in return.
However, there are indications that Bassil seeks to reappoint former Deputy Prime Minister Zina Akar to her previous position, replacing current Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh Al-Shami, a request likely to be approved by the designated Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who has reservations about Al-Shami's performance, particularly regarding negotiations with the International Monetary Fund. Additionally, the name of a close Akkar figure to Bassil has been suggested for this position.
The changes may also involve several other ministries, including defense, justice, tourism, social affairs, and administrative development. Bassil's priority will be to appoint ministers who are not shared between him and Mikati and whom he trusts completely. The fate of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Minister Abdullah Bou Habib has not yet been determined.
It is worth noting that these changes could face opposition from the designated Prime Minister, who may insist on keeping some ministers, such as Walid Nassar, a close ally, which could delay the government formation or force Bassil into some concessions.
