Nawaf Salam Appointed Prime Minister of Lebanon Amid Economic Crisis

President Joseph Aoun appointed Nawaf Salam, ICJ judge, as Lebanon’s prime minister amid ongoing economic crises, receiving majority support from lawmakers. Salam’s designation signifies a shift towards reform after years of caretaker government, hoping to address critical issues in the war-torn country, with emphasis on combating systemic corruption and initiating necessary reforms.

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun appointed Nawaf Salam, the presiding judge of the International Court of Justice in The Hague, as the new prime minister. This decision comes after a two-year period of caretaker governance in the war-torn nation, which has been grappling with an economic crisis. Salam’s nomination received support from 84 members of the Lebanese parliament, with a minority favoring the continuation of interim prime minister Najib Mikati. President Aoun has expressed the desire for a smooth and swift formation of the government.

Salam’s designation represents a political shift in Lebanon as Aoun, newly elected after a two-year vacancy, sought the backing of lawmakers. Firas Hamdan, an independent lawmaker, highlighted that Salam’s appointment is a “purely Lebanese political initiative.” Supporters of Salam view him as a figure of integrity committed to essential reforms, countering the cronyism attributed to former prime minister Mikati.

Lebanon has been enduring a severe economic turmoil, marked by extensive financial collapse and political instability. For over two years, the country was governed by a caretaker administration following the resignation of the previous government. The recent election of President Joseph Aoun aimed to reinstate political functionality in the country, with a focus on establishing a government capable of addressing ongoing issues. Salam, taking over the role of prime minister, is expected to lead efforts in economic reform and reconstruction, particularly after the devastation caused by conflicts involving Hezbollah and Israel.

In summary, the appointment of Nawaf Salam as Lebanon’s prime minister by President Joseph Aoun marks a significant political development aimed at navigating through the nation’s dire economic crisis following a protracted caretaker period. With substantial parliamentary support, Salam is expected to implement crucial reforms needed to restore stability in Lebanon. His emergence as a candidate free from external political influence received a positive reception among many lawmakers, reflecting hope for effective governance in the near future.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com