Beirut: Development and Liberation bloc MP, Qassem Hashem, emphasized on Wednesday that Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam has a vision for government formation but must address Lebanon's political realities. In his statements to Sputnik Radio, Hashem confirmed that Salam and the "Shiite Duo" have reached a clear understanding regarding the Ministry of Finance, describing the matter as nearly settled.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Hashem anticipates that the government could be formed within days if the remaining obstacles, unrelated to the "Shiite Duo," are resolved. Addressing speculation about MP Yassin Jaber potentially heading the Finance Ministry, Hashem clarified that Speaker Nabih Berri has several qualified candidates, noting that the current names circulating are only in the media.
Regarding the distribution of ministerial positions, Hashem mentioned prior agreements among political forces and a draft government lineup prepared by Salam. On the subject of portfolio rotation, Hashem highlighted a consensus on maintaining sovereign ministries while rotating service ministries. He cited proposals for the "Shiite Duo" to assume the Health Ministry instead of Public Works, and the Industry Ministry instead of Agriculture.