Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has formed a new government after two and a half years of caretaker leadership. The cabinet includes 24 ministers selected amid political negotiations while avoiding direct party affiliations. Key figures include Yassine Jaber, Tamara Elzein, and Haneen Sayed, each bringing significant expertise in addressing Lebanon’s numerous challenges.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced the formation of a new government, resolving an extended period of caretaker leadership that lasted over two and a half years. Despite his commitment to exclude party-affiliated members, cabinet selections were influenced by traditional sectarian power-sharing, with consultations held among political leaders. This new government body comprises 24 ministers, reflecting a blend of political affiliations and expertise.
Among notable appointees is Yassine Jaber, a former economy and transport minister aligned with the powerful parliament speaker, Nabih Berri. His selection has garnered attention and criticism, suggesting a potential advantage for Berri amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic challenges stemming from war recovery and systemic collapse.
Tamara Elzein has notably served as the secretary-general of Lebanon’s National Council for Scientific Research and holds a vice presidency with UNESCO. Her academic background includes a doctorate in physical chemistry. Ghassan Salame, a former UN envoy with a rich diplomatic history, contributes a wealth of experience from his previous roles, addressing international and regional conflicts.
Another significant figure, Haneen Sayed, brings an economics perspective with extensive experience with the World Bank, focusing on Lebanon’s economic crisis response. Joe Saddi, a consulting veteran with an MBA from Cornell University, has led major projects in the Middle East, particularly in energy and mining sectors. His involvement marks a deviation from past appointments controlled by the Free Patriotic Movement, a Christian party.
Kamal Shehadi assumes roles related to displaced persons and technology, facing considerable challenges in addressing Lebanon’s persistent electricity crises. Shehadi is equipped with degrees from prestigious institutions such as Columbia and Harvard, complementing his extensive telecommunications background.
The recent formation of a new government in Lebanon marks a critical shift following a prolonged caretaker phase. With sectarian representation ingrained in Lebanese political structure, Prime Minister Salam has attempted to navigate party affiliations while addressing Lebanon’s dire economic situation resulting from years of conflict and instability. The newly appointed ministers, featuring individuals with substantial professional backgrounds and diplomatic ties, illustrate both continuity and potential change in governance.
The formation of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s cabinet introduces a diverse group of ministers amid Lebanon’s multifaceted challenges, including economic recovery and political stability. By incorporating professionals with experience across various sectors, the government seeks to address pressing issues while maneuvering through the entrenched sectarian political landscape. The roles of key ministers, such as Yassine Jaber and Haneen Sayed, will be pivotal as Lebanon looks towards reconstruction and revitalization post-crisis.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
