Opposition Hints at Escalating Measures if Cabinet Delayed
The opposition has on Friday reportedly hinted at undertaking escalating measures next week if the new cabinet was not formed soon.
The pro-opposition Al Akhbar daily, citing well-informed sources, said the opposition will not stay handcuffed in the event that the new cabinet line-up was not finalized by the beginning of next week.
The sources indicated that pressure would be exerted from both internal and foreign powers in an effort to speed up the formation of the new cabinet.
"Prime Minister Fouad Saniora and his team would feel that they have to work under pressure which will come from various sides in Lebanon and abroad," said one opposition source.
Sources close to Nabih Berri said the Parliament Speaker had informed Saniora that in the event of failure to set up a new government "all options would be considered."
Berri”s sources, however, did not underestimate the positive factors that exist in the cabinet make-up process.
Meanwhile, Saniora announced after meeting Berri late Thursday that progress has been made in the cabinet line-up.