Carole Salloum, “Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

Not to be overly optimistic until the first step happens

As soon as Speaker of the House of Representatives Nabih Berri confirmed in a press statement that he would chair the dialogue on the presidential file based on the initiative of the National Moderation bloc, it became logical to ask about its reality.

The National Moderation's proposal remains in place, the concept of consultation means dialogue. From this point of view, supporters of the initiative may find themselves in front of proceeding with it provided that the successive cycles of this ele ction are completed. The problem is to secure the presence of the blocs to secure the constitutional quorum in order to discuss the names.

In this context, parliamentary sources in line with the National Moderation bloc point out, via "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency, that the endeavor is still the same and it is not time to say that it is irretrievably over, especially that the contacts of his deputies are continuing in the context of working to provide reassurances that the goal is not to elect a certain figure or impose it. As for the issue of dialogue, which is the focus of concern among the opposition forces, President Berri confirmed that this issue is done without preconditions, and reports that there is a responsibility before the deputies whether to extend the vacancy, end it, or give an opportunity to this endeavor.

These sources consider that the support of the initiative from the ambassadors of the five-nation group is based on the keenness to complete the presidential entitlement, saying that the guarantees required from a number of parties are guarantees related to the election session and not to alter the content of the consultation or discuss any other item except the presidency.

The same sources point out that this endeavor -if successful- will pave the way to the completion of the presidential elections, but on the basis of not being overly optimistic until the first step occurs. They confirm that the work is underway for its success and it is necessary to provide cover for it and stop "demonizing" it by some.