New Recusal Request Filed against Judge Bitar

The detained harbormaster of Beirut’s port, Mohammed al-Mawla, has filed a request through his lawyer for transferring the port blast case from the hands of Judge Tarek Bitar to another lead investigative judge.

The request cites the current suspension of investigations and keenness on the proper conduct of justice.

“The request has been referred to the sixth chamber of the criminal court of cassation, to which Judge Munif Barakat has been appointed as president,” al-Jadeed TV said.

Bitar has faced a flurry of legal challenges and lawsuits calling for his removal, which forced him to suspend the probe at least four times. He had summoned and charged several senior officials on charges of intentional negligence that led to the explosion, which killed around 220 people and injured thousands.