Beirut:Free Patriotic Movement leader, MP Gebran Bassil, has criticized the government and the Ministry of Energy for their handling of the electricity sector, accusing them of failing to meet promised improvements.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Bassil questioned the government's reduction in power supply and the increased financial burden on citizens, linking it to $22 billion spent on electricity subsidies since the 1990s. He noted that current political forces in power had supported the continuation of these subsidies despite calls from his party to end them.
Bassil highlighted the unfulfilled promise of providing 24-hour state electricity, pointing to a $3 billion annual increase in private generator costs for Lebanese households. He alleged that policies favored private generator operators and diesel importers, causing unnecessary additional expenses for citizens.
Regarding dam projects, Bassil expressed frustration over the lengthy review process by ministry officials, despite having studies prepared and audited by international companies. He criticized the lack of amendments to the electricity law, which he claims has hindered the regulatory authority's effectiveness.
Addressing the Energy and Water Ministry's proposals to the Cabinet, Bassil argued they focused more on administrative issues rather than substantial improvements in electricity generation, water supply, or oil resource development. He also raised concerns over the forensic audit of fuel shipping practices and questioned the potential outcomes due to legal violations.
Finally, Bassil criticized the government's narrative on collecting outstanding dues from state institutions to restore electricity supply, highlighting that half of the $250 million owed was by water institutions under the Energy Ministry, potentially exacerbating their financial challenges.
