Joseph Aoun Embarks on Parliamentary Consultations to Select Lebanon’s Prime Minister

Department of Research, Studies and International News 13-01-2025

Following his recent election, Lebanon’s newly sworn-in President Joseph Aoun has commenced official consultations with parliamentary representatives to determine the country’s next prime minister. This pivotal process began early Monday morning, with Aoun meeting Elias Abu Saab, the deputy speaker of parliament, as reported by Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency.

Currently, two figures have emerged as leading contenders for the role: Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and prominent judge Nawaf Salam. Mikati, who enjoys the support of the Hezbollah-led political alliance, has been steering the nation in a caretaker capacity since the presidency was vacated. On the other hand, Salam, an esteemed judge presiding at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, is favored by parliamentary factions opposed to Hezbollah.

The results of President Aoun’s consultations are expected by the end of the day. However, even after a prime minister is selected, forming a new government is anticipated to be a lengthy and arduous task. Historically, the process of cabinet formation in Lebanon has taken months due to deep political divisions.

Zeina Khodr highlighted the president’s vision for the next government leader. “President Aoun has expressed his hope for a prime minister who will act as a collaborator rather than an adversary, someone with international credibility and a commitment to implementing essential reforms,” Khodr reported.

Lebanon’s political structure is shaped by a unique confessional power-sharing arrangement aimed at ensuring representation for its diverse religious communities. The president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim, and the parliamentary speaker a Shia Muslim.

This arrangement grants the prime minister significant executive powers, making their role crucial in navigating Lebanon’s complex political and economic challenges. Mikati, a wealthy businessman and seasoned politician, has expressed readiness to continue serving the country if deemed necessary. However, critics view him as emblematic of an entrenched political system heavily influenced by Hezbollah.

Salam, conversely, represents a break from the status quo for anti-Hezbollah legislators, who seek a leader capable of steering the country toward reform and away from partisan entanglements.

Whoever assumes the role of prime minister will inherit a nation grappling with monumental challenges. Lebanon is enduring its most severe economic crisis in modern history, characterized by skyrocketing inflation, widespread poverty, and dwindling public services. To unlock desperately needed international aid, the new government will need to implement sweeping reforms.

Additionally, the prime minister will face the monumental task of rebuilding parts of the country devastated by the recent war between Israel and Hezbollah. The November 27 ceasefire agreement has brought temporary calm, but its stipulations, including the disarmament of Hezbollah, pose significant political and logistical hurdles.