Arslan Urges Miqati to Ward Off Local-Foreign Pressure and Form the Cabinet

Lebanese Democratic Party leader Talal Arslan said there was no excuse in delaying the formation of the cabinet, stressing that neither the international tribunal’s indictment nor the March 14 stance would be in favor of Lebanon.

“I am not convinced of statements that call for waiting for the development of the situation internally and abroad,” Arslan told As Safir daily in remarks published Monday.

“Neither the indictment expected to be issued by the (tribunal) prosecutor will be in the country’s interest nor will the March 14 forces take a positive stance from the government. Then why wait?” the MP wondered.

He said reports about hurdles facing Miqati’s efforts to form the cabinet were the result of delays in the government formation process.

“I spoke with the premier-designate about the necessity to speed up the formation. I don’t know what’s delaying” his task, Arslan added.