Beirut: The Kataeb Party's Political Bureau conducted its regular weekly meeting under the leadership of party head Samy Gemayel. In their discussions regarding recent developments, a statement was released highlighting several key issues.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Political Bureau expressed discontent with the Speaker of Parliament's refusal to convene the legislature for amending the electoral law, despite the government's acknowledgment of its impractical provisions. The Bureau emphasized its unwavering commitment to modifying the law to enable Lebanese expatriates to vote for all 128 parliament members from their countries of residence. It noted that elections would be incomplete without full expatriate participation and illegitimate if citizens in southern regions under Hezbollah's influence are unable to vote freely.
The Bureau also reaffirmed its support for the Lebanese Armed Forces in efforts to place all weapons under state authority and secure international assistance. It stressed the significance of the upcoming international conference for the Lebanese Army, set for August 5, and urged Lebanon's allies to actively support the military's needs. Furthermore, the Bureau called on the Council of Ministers to accelerate efforts to centralize weaponry under state control and extend state authority beyond the Litani River, advocating for the dismantling of Hezbollah's military presence ahead of parliamentary elections.
Additionally, the Bureau commended the Prime Minister's recent visit to southern Lebanon, which highlighted the local commitment to state sovereignty. It also praised the Prime Minister's efforts to address the unsafe building crisis in Tripoli, attributing the issue to unregulated construction and lack of state oversight. The Bureau called for a comprehensive solution and investigation into the matter to ensure accountability.
Lastly, the Bureau welcomed the draft law proposed by the Minister of Justice to raise the age of criminal responsibility from seven to fourteen years, aligning with international standards and modern neuroscience findings. The initiative advocates for a protective and rehabilitative approach for children rather than a punitive one.