Saniora Concludes Consultations, No Deadline Set to Form Cabinet
Premier-designate Fouad Saniora concluded two days of consultations with Parliamentary blocs to form a new cabinet without setting a deadline to announce the outcome of his efforts.
None of the opposition or pro-opposition Sunni MPs who met Saniora expressed a wish to join the cabinet, which reflected a desire to avoid the embarrassment of accepting a cabinet seat offered by Hizbullah that is at odds with the Sunni Majority represented by Saad Hariri”s Mustaqbal Movement.
MP Ousama Saad, who heads the Hizbullah-allied Popular Nasserite Organization, clearly stated that he is not interested in a cabinet seat.
MP Bahij Tabbara, who had broken away from the decision adopted by the March 14 majority and refused to nominate Saniora for premier, also said he is not interested in a cabinet seat.
Saniora, talking to reporters after concluding his consultations, said he would review the details with President Michel Suleiman prior to forming his cabinet.
"I am optimistic by nature," Saniora said in answering a question.
Saniora, stressing that he is committed to forming a "national unity government in line with the Doha Accord," said he would hold further contacts after meeting with the president prior to determining on the final structure of his cabinet.
Mp Musbah Ahdab, who represents the northern town of Tripolli and is allied with the March 14 majority, said he wants a cabinet seat to represent his constituency.
MP Solange Gemayel said she would not support a cabinet if it included ministers who do not believe in Lebanon”s sovereignty.
Saniora, when asked when he would announce his cabinet, said "As usual I wouldn”t commit my self to a deadline. If the mission requires one hour, I wouldn”t give it 65 minutes."