Qabalan: Establish a government and give ministers their powers

Source: Daily Star, 07-06-2008

Vice president of the Higher Shiite Muslim Council, Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan, said that Lebanon is currently living in a state of "worry, provocation and insecurity."

"We should not remain tight-lipped over the concern, viciousness and harm that are plaguing the country," Qabalan said in his Friday sermon. "The ongoing media incitement also increases that concern."

Qabalan said the Doha agreement should be implemented "in one basket." "We do not want a caretaker government. We want a national unity government that enjoys competence and good planning."

Qabalan urged Prime Minister Fouad Saniora to treat people equally and not to allow certain sects or categories to monopolize ministries.

"We call on all parties, of all sects, to make concessions and eliminate any discord between Muslims and Christians," he said. "We want a state of security and not a state of chaos. We should establish a government and give every minister the power he needs to work in the political and social fields."

Addressing the residents of Beirut, Qabalan said: "Some people hurt you and you hurt them back. So we have to turn over a new leaf, forget the past and work for spreading peace and stability."
"We should also allow the state, army and security forces to fulfill their duties," he added.