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2 clusters · 7 sources · 12 days · First seen · Last updated

Lebanese cabinet ministers protest energy crisis

Overview

Lebanese government ministers have begun withdrawing from cabinet sessions in protest of the ongoing energy crisis and stalled reforms.

Initially, Energy and Water Minister Joe Sadi announced his boycott, citing a lack of government action regarding proposals to address rising costs and the failure of state institutions to pay outstanding debts to the Lebanese Electricity Establishment. The Free Patriotic Movement criticized Sadi, describing his absence as a “new chapter in the electricity file play” and accusing him of mismanaging assets.

Following this, ministers from the Lebanese Forces party also withdrew from sessions, characterizing their move as a “technical protest” rather than a political attempt to weaken the government. These ministers expressed frustration over months of inaction regarding energy reforms, such as plans to collect $250 million in arrears through installment plans and the implementation of a flexible tariff system. Additionally, they raised concerns over budget discrepancies, noting that while the energy budget was reduced, other sectors like health and social affairs saw significant increases.

Entities

Lebanese government · Joe Sadi · Joe Issa El Khoury · Joe Phady · Lebanese Electricity Establishment

Timeline

  1. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Lebanese Forces ministers withdraw from cabinet over energy reforms

    Lebanese Forces ministers have withdrawn from cabinet sessions to protest stalled energy reforms and government spending priorities, specifically regarding the electricity sector and budget allocations.

  2. [POLITICS] 6 sources
    Lebanese Energy Minister Joe Sadi boycotts cabinet sessions

    Lebanese Energy Minister Joe Sadi has boycotted cabinet meetings to protest the government's failure to fund electricity needs, while the Free Patriotic Movement criticized his handling of the sector.

Sources

almanar.com.lb · alsadaranews.com · cbnlb.com · ch23.com · dailynewslb.com · middleeasttransparent.com · palsawa.com