Salim Sets the Record Straight: 'We Are Not a 24-Minister Government,' Justice Is Foundation of Our Stance on Amnesty Law

Prime Minister Najib Salim put an end to the debate surrounding today’s parliamentary session, particularly regarding the absence of Defense Minister Michel Moallem and the government’s stance on the amnesty bill proposal, affirming that speaking on behalf of the executive branch is the prerogative of the Prime Minister, according to the constitution.

During his intervention in the general assembly, Salim explained he stepped in to clarify the positions circulating both inside and outside the parliament, to prevent any confusion or misinterpretation. He stated that the Defense Minister had prepared a speech on the amnesty bill proposal but informed him he would present the government’s position when the item was discussed, making no further executive statement necessary.

Salim cited Article 64 of the constitution, which states that the Prime Minister chairs the government, represents it, and speaks on its behalf, asserting this settles the debate over which body has the authority to express the government’s position.

Salim categorically denied ever requesting that the Defense Minister not attend the parliamentary session, calling such claims "baseless fabrications," and reaffirmed his good relationship with Moallem and their shared commitment to constitutional principles and ministerial solidarity.

"We are not a 24-minister government," Salim said, stressing that the government functions as a single team and does not hold divergent positions based on individual ministers.

Regarding the Army Command’s position on the amnesty bill, Salim clarified that this stance had already been conveyed to parliamentary committees by the Defense Minister, not only verbally but also through a written memorandum submitted with his approval, prior to the finalization of the current proposal before the Parliament.

Salim rejected any attempt to politicize the military institution, affirming that the government has consistently worked to support and strengthen the army. He highlighted his personal efforts during foreign visits and meetings with international ministers, ambassadors, and envoys to secure necessary support and equipment for the armed forces, as well as initiatives to improve military personnel and officers’ salaries and maintain institutional morale.

He emphasized that protecting the army requires keeping it out of any internal conflict or dispute, underscoring that the government is committed to ensuring the military’s position is not perceived as taking sides against any Lebanese entity.

Concluding his remarks, Salim reiterated the government’s position on the amnesty bill, affirming that their guiding principle remains "justice, justice, justice," while noting that the final decision on the proposal rests with the Parliament.