MP Ashraf Rifi affirmed

Speaking about the military appointments, MP Ashraf Rifi affirmed that this step represents the beginning of changing the current reality, emphasizing the need for the government to provide the necessary requirements for military personnel to restore their confidence in their state and institution.

Regarding the vacancy in administrative positions, Rifi explained during an interview with the program “Events in a Talk” on “Voice of All Lebanon 93.3” that the main reason behind this vacancy is favoritism, which has hindered the work of the Civil Service Board responsible for preparing and qualifying individuals for public sector jobs based on clear criteria of competence and merit.

As for judicial appointments, Rifi pointed out that an independent judiciary requires self-inspection and development, along with the transition from special courts to specialized courts. He mentioned that the “Strong Republic” bloc had submitted a proposal in this regard.

Concerning the pursuit of justice in the Beirut Port explosion case, Rifi stressed that no party can intimidate or undermine the state to prevent justice from being achieved. He affirmed that the truth will inevitably emerge, otherwise the country would fall into a cycle of vengeance and retaliation.

On the southern issue, Rifi stated that the Shiite community is the greatest victim of Iranian occupation, emphasizing that no faction can impose its dominance over other groups. He pointed out that Israel’s technological superiority had forced Lebanon into submission, underlining the need for coordinated official and popular efforts to compel Israel to withdraw from Lebanon. He commended the role of Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun for working with Arab brothers and Western nations to address the crisis, asserting that diplomacy is the only solution, as Lebanon can no longer bear the burden of Arab affairs alone, and Arab nations must share this responsibility.

Regarding the situation in Tripoli, Rifi reassured that the city’s conditions are now stable following recent events, thanks to the serious efforts of political and religious leaders who worked diligently to maintain security and implement precautionary measures. He added that Lebanon is inevitably destined to bear the consequences of regional security developments.

Commenting on his absence from the Tripoli Declaration between the “Future Movement” and Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Rifi noted that attacking Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government is a blow to the hopes of the Lebanese people, emphasizing that it is too early to judge it before six months have passed. He added that he aligns nationally with this alliance but not politically, stressing that public sentiment in Tripoli opposes the traditional political class and the quota system. He expressed his readiness to participate in the electoral process alongside those who share his political stance.

Speaking about the commemoration of March 14, Rifi stated that the revolution was a national uprising that laid the foundation for an independent political decision, contributed to building the state, and achieved the withdrawal of the Syrian regime from Lebanon. He described the “Cedar Revolution” as a continuous journey marked by several stages that fostered a spirit of independence and the determination to build a free and sovereign state.

Rifi concluded by affirming that the spirit of March 14 remains alive within the bloc of 31 MPs who exerted significant pressure to eliminate Iranian influence and elect an independent president for the country.