Miqati Rejects to Clash with Aoun over 'Political' Criticism

Officials close to Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Miqati have said Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun's recent accusations against him were politically motivated.

His remarks “are political and don't reflect the reality on the ground,” the officials, who were not identified, told al-Joumhouria daily published on Saturday.

“Miqati has assumed all his responsibilities,” they said.

Describing Miqati as the “hero” of irresponsibility in oil exploration, Aoun said Friday the caretaker PM “is escaping his responsibility in calling for aa cabinet session.”

He also accused Miqati of not having the ability to resolve “patriotic issues.”

Two decrees are yet to be approved to award tenders for offshore oil and gas exploration. Their approval would designate Lebanon’s 10 offshore blocks for exploration and determine the model for revenue sharing.

Sources close to Miqati also told An Nahar newspaper that the caretaker Premier will not engage in an argument with Aoun.

“This is not the first time that Aoun makes stances against PM Miqati, who has never escaped or dissociated himself from pending issues,” they said.

Al-Joumhouria said that Miqati will make a personal trip abroad to spend the Eid al-Adha holidays with his family.