Diab’s government holds first meeting after announcement
- The newly appointed government convened its first meeting in Baabda Palace on Wednesday. A committee led by Prime Minister Hassan Diab was formed to draft a ministerial statement that will stress on restoring the confidence of the Lebanese people and the international community.
- In a statement to the press after the meeting, Diab said that the country’s stability has been given the highest priority. He emphasized that this government would represent the interests of the people, and not that of one party or political alliance. The Association of Banks welcomed the formation of the government in a statement, trusting it to alleviate the country from its financial and economic crises.
On day 98, roadblocks, marches, and protests in rejection of the new government
- As the new government was being announced Tuesday night, protesters in Tripoli, Dahr el—Baydar, Khaldeh, Beirut, and other areas moved to block roads and highways. Roadblocks continued on Wednesday, including in Jiyyeh, Taalbayah, Saadnayel, the Zahle roundabout, and Corniche el Mazraa.
- Protesters in Beirut marched from the headquarters of the Central Bank in Hamra to Nejmeh Square. Security forces continued their violent crackdown on protesters in central Beirut, as tear gas and water cannons were deployed. In response, several protesters set one tent belonging to the security forces on fire. The Lebanese Army blocked all roads leading to Martyrs’ Square. Marches were also held in Tyre and Sidon demanding Diab’s resignation.
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