Beirut: The Kataeb Party's Political Bureau convened its weekly meeting under the leadership of Party Leader Samy Gemayel to address the rapidly evolving regional developments and their potential impacts on Lebanon. Following the deliberations, a statement was issued emphasizing the party's stance on critical national matters.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Kataeb Party praised the Lebanese state's strong commitment to maintaining neutrality amid the regional conflict. The party reiterated its call for the exclusive control of war and peace decisions by the state and its legitimate institutions. The bureau stressed the necessity for all weapons to be placed under the Lebanese state's authority. In this context, Hezbollah is urged to relinquish its arms to the Lebanese Army, sever foreign ties, and reintegrate into the state, which is deemed the sole protector of Lebanon and its citizens.
The party expressed concern over the safety of the Lebanese people amid potential external security threats, advocating for a comprehensive national emergency plan to safeguard citizens and reduce risks. The Kataeb Party highlighted the danger posed by flammable materials at the Port of Beirut and urged the Cabinet to allocate funds for their removal to avert another potential disaster.
The Kataeb Party also called for unified political, security, and diplomatic efforts to ensure a stable environment for residents, expatriates, and tourists. The bureau urged the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to enhance maritime tourism routes to Lebanese ports, especially Jounieh, as an alternative to air travel in case of security threats.
In a separate matter, the Kataeb Party welcomed the completion of diplomatic appointments after an eight-year pause. The party emphasized the urgency of proceeding with remaining appointments and rotations, particularly within the judiciary, to restore public confidence and establish an independent justice system. The bureau expressed support for Justice Minister Adel Nassar's efforts in reestablishing the judiciary's independence and stressed the importance of judicial reform as a foundation for broader national reforms.
The Kataeb Party called on Parliament to expedite the adoption of critical reform legislation, including the draft law on judicial independence, the banking sector restructuring law, and the legislation to lift banking secrecy. The party also urged the government to adopt the financial gap law, essential for economic recovery and signaling Lebanon's commitment to reform and renewal.