Carole Salloum, “Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

"Reform" is a Major Endeavor Committed to by Aoun and Salam...Where Does It Begin?

A New Phase: Urgency in Decision-Making and Implementation

The term "reforms" frequently appears in the statements of President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, as it serves as the gateway to restoring confidence in Lebanon and the foundation for state-building. Both leaders are keen on promoting this concept. Accordingly, a series of measures are expected to be implemented to advance the required course of action.

Thus, when discussing reforms, it is essential to highlight their key aspects as commonly recognized: "The rule of law, transparency, public participation in decision-making, justice, efficiency in execution, administrative competence, accountability, strategic vision, political renewal, and the rectification of governance paths".

This definition may seem ambitious given Lebanon’s long-standing political landscape. However, it remains an undeniable reality. Therefore, the launch of the government's action plan must be awaited to navigate the complex and pressing issues at hand, as without executive decisions, progress on reforms will be challenging.

In this context, informed sources told "Akhbar Al-Yawm" agency that the President did not refer to "reform" in the singular but rather to "reforms" in the plural. This distinction underscores that the matter involves a comprehensive set of corrective measures, each carrying a reformative nature. Furthermore, these reforms are not confined to a single administration or sector; rather, they encompass a broad and far-reaching initiative spanning political, economic, and social dimensions.

As for where to begin, sources suggest that this will depend on the consensus between President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam, as well as the decisions taken by the Council of Ministers.

These sources emphasize that reforms are essential for attracting international assistance and driving Lebanon’s recovery. They indicate that various proposals will be presented, and any legislative initiatives that align with reform objectives—whether financial, judicial, administrative, or otherwise—will be discussed and enacted. Additionally, the role of Parliament will be crucial in passing the necessary laws without delay, as "this new phase demands swift decision-making and implementation".

The sources further believe that reforms will be a central topic in government sessions, suggesting that the reform process will proceed in stages but according to a clear and structured timeline. The priority lies in prompt approval and execution to ensure a swift international response and support, as external indicators have already signaled a readiness to assist the new administration.

This presents a pivotal opportunity for the state and its institutions to undertake a comprehensive and genuine reform process, leaving no aspect unaddressed.

However, is success guaranteed? The answer hinges on time and the ability to translate adopted directives into concrete, actionable measures on the ground. The final verdict, however, remains to be seen.