Mikati: UCC’s demands rightful and we support them, but…

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said on Thursday that, if the cabinet had not called for the elections according to the existing electoral law, campaigns would have been launched against it, accusing it of failing to perform its duties, noting that any amendment affecting the elections is among the responsibilities of the government.                  

During his meeting with a delegation from the Editors’ syndicate headed by Elias Aoun at the Serail, Mikati added that in case the Lebanese parties are not able to agree on a new electoral law, at least they should take the necessary steps to ensure the continuation of legislation to prevent political void.                

Commenting on the Union Coordination Committee (UCC)’s strike, Mikati stressed that their demands are rightful but the file must be carefully studied, stating that the file of the ranks and salaries series and the issue of the Elections Supervisory Committee will be inserted to the agenda of the cabinet session expected to be held on the 21st of March.              

On the other hand, the PM said that “he does not mind extending the mandates of the leaders of security apparatuses”, noting that a draft law concerning this matter exists at the Parliament, but it has not yet been passed.                  

On the movement of Sheikh Ahmad Assir, Mikati stressed that the army is dealing with this issue under the cover of the cabinet, hoping that everyone will be guided toward the interest of the country and its people.