Qassem Sees No Cabinet Formation in Near Future
Hizullah”s deputy leader Sheikh Naim Qassem played down optimism that a deal on government formation was imminent, saying conditions were not yet right.
"Optimism just does not sound right given that circumstances, both internally and externally, are not yet ripe for the establishment of a government," Qassem said in an interview published by the daily As Safir Friday.
He was hitting back at Speaker Nabih Berri who has repeatedly said he was optimistic an agreement on a Cabinet lineup will be reached before month”s end.
Qassem pointed that Syrian-Saudi contacts have so far failed to produce a pact that could be a "motive" for the formation of the government.
He stressed, however, that "no matter how long it takes, eventually formation of a government will take place."
"The ball is now in the hands of the Prime Minister-designate (Saad Hariri)," Qassem believed.
He said the Opposition is looking forward to a "courageous decision" from Hariri to strike a deal on a new Cabinet "that, in itself, would serve as a guarantee to all."
"Responsibility now falls on his (Hariri”s) shoulders to convince his allies in March 14 (forces). We believe that MP Walid Jumblat could play a vital role in helping out with this," Qassem added.