Beirut: The Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), led by MP Gebran Bassil, convened its political bureau on Saturday, issuing a statement that criticized the current government's economic policies and called for the restriction of arms to the state. The meeting highlighted concerns about the government's handling of economic matters and the need for a clear national defense strategy.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the FPM emphasized that addressing the issue of weapons in Lebanon should be based on an equation that involves restricting arms solely to the state. This approach requires immediate Israeli withdrawal from occupied southern territories, cessation of attacks, and liberation of those areas. The statement urged all Lebanese, including resistance members, to take this opportunity to protect national borders and rights.
The FPM further stressed the importance of establishing and demarcating Lebanon's borders in the south, east, and north. It called for the immediate return of displaced Syrians, asserting that the reasons for their displacement have been resolved. The Movement also highlighted the need to address the Palestinian refugee issue to prevent their permanent resettlement in Lebanon.
Economically, the FPM criticized Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's government for its lack of reform measures in finance, banking, and the economy. The FPM claimed that the government is overspending beyond the budget without a clear policy to boost economic productivity, turning into what it described as a "government of taxes" on gasoline and diesel, leading to an increase in public debt.
The statement reiterated the Lebanese people's desire for a state characterized by justice, law, and guaranteed citizen rights. It emphasized the importance of implementing the parliamentary elections law, ensuring the election of six representatives for the Lebanese diaspora, and allowing them to vote in their registered constituencies.
The FPM also welcomed parliamentary approval of a law proposed by the "Strong Lebanon" bloc, aimed at empowering municipalities. This law is expected to address financial issues faced by municipalities by enhancing their capacities through increased tax collection and new resources.