Finance Minister to LBCI: Monetary stability remains top priority, public sector rights protected pending legal approval

Lebanon’s Finance Minister Yassine Jaber said the country’s top priority remains monetary stability, stressing that any financial collapse would affect nearly six million people in Lebanon.

In an interview with LBCI, Jaber said the government respects the demands and sacrifices of public sector employees, but emphasized that their rights must be addressed in accordance with the law and in a way that does not undermine financial and monetary stability.

He said public sector employees’ rights are guaranteed, but any spending must first be approved through legislation passed by Parliament, noting that the finance minister cannot authorize expenditures outside the legal framework.

Jaber also criticized what he described as inappropriate personal attacks against him, reiterating that he cannot violate the law and must wait for Parliament to pass legislation allowing the ministry to spend additional funds.

He added that the government has protected employees’ rights since March 1 and is seeking ways to satisfy their demands without harming the country’s economic stability.

The minister explained that new state spending requires opening budget allocations through Parliament and said the government’s priorities currently include continuing salary payments without interruption, supporting the healthcare sector, addressing humanitarian needs, and maintaining public services.

Jaber further stated that the timing is not suitable for floating the exchange rate, stressing the need to preserve stability.

He also said it would be inappropriate, given the current crisis, to threaten the cancellation of official exams.