Lebanon's Prime Ministerial Aspirations: Political Dynamics and Speculations Ahead of Presidential Election

Consultations in the political corridors

The discussions surrounding the appointment of a designated prime minister in Lebanon remain minimal within the political circles, with only a few new aspirants from the caretaker government raising the issue during their engagements or communications with foreign entities involved in Lebanese affairs. However, the established political figures who have previously served as prime ministers are reluctant to dive into the government formation process before the election of a new president. They also refrain from declaring their intention to take on the role, as indicated by impressions from former Prime Minister Tamam Salam.

On his part, former Prime Minister Fouad Siniora is taking a cautious approach and prefers to postpone any discussion on the matter until his time comes. In his private discussions, he often stresses that "it is too early to talk about the government, as this matter requires a clear understanding of the upcoming phase and how Lebanon can overcome the major crises it is facing." Siniora avoids talking about potential candidates, considering such predictions premature. Meanwhile, certain political blocs continue to discuss the possibility of appointing a prime minister after the presidential election, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the president and the prime minister.

According to exclusive information from "An-Nahar", among the names being discussed in political consultations is current caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who enjoys support from a significant number of Sunni MPs who politically coordinate with him. Some believe that Mikati is the most capable of managing the coming phase, particularly alongside General Joseph Aoun. Additionally, MP Fouad Makhzoumi’s name frequently comes up in parliamentary circles, as he has been aiming for the prime ministership for years, having established political connections with various parliamentary blocs and organized international trips. His candidacy for prime minister has received preliminary endorsement within some opposition parliamentary factions.

The ambitions of several Sunni ministers are also evident in their aspirations for the role of "Prime Minister." Minister of Economy Amin Salam, who is part of the caretaker government, has publicly expressed his intention to become prime minister, with some of his supporters suggesting that his candidacy is favored internationally, which he discusses during his foreign trips. Similarly, Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi has shown considerable ambition to become prime minister, particularly as he maintains connections with various Arab countries on several issues. However, all the candidates or individuals being considered for the position of prime minister, along with others, are still waiting for the outcome of the presidential election. A deputy closely following the consultations on preparations for the next phase summarized that Lebanon must follow an essential reformist rescue path, but discussions about the premiership remain premature, despite the numerous speculations circulating, which are still considered exploratory.