Mikati decries 'campaigns' against govt. over Syrian refugees

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Monday noted that “the continuation of the campaigns against the government in the Syrian refugee file is an approach that is clearly aimed at distorting the truth for populist goals.”

Some are seeking to “paralyze the work of the government and preoccupy it with futile bickering and debates,” Mikati lamented, in remarks at the Grand Serail.

“We will carry on with our work and with implementing the decisions we have taken, with a living conscience and a sense of responsibility, and we will detailed remarks in this regard during Wednesday’s parliamentary session,” Mikati added.

Several parties have lashed out at Mikati and the European Union after the EU announced $1 billion in aid for Lebanon and urged it to tackle illegal migration to the bloc in what critics have described as a “bribe” aimed at keeping the Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

The bulk of the package — 736 million euros — would go to supporting Syrian refugees “and other vulnerable groups” in Lebanon, while 200 million euros would bolster Lebanese security services in enforcing border and migration control, according to figures provided by the Cypriot government.

Parliament is scheduled to meet Wednesday to discuss the grant amid reports that the legislature might reject it.