Berri accuses Geagea of pushing for federalism, says he’s stuck in the Halat era

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri emphasized his willingness to adapt to the requests of the Quintet by replacing his presidential “dialogue” initiative with “consultations.” He conveyed this to French special envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian and the ambassadors of Qatar, France, Egypt, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia.

Berri stated that terms such as consultations, communication, meetings, and talks are synonymous with dialogue. He asserted to al-Joumhouria newspaper that the role and authority of the parliament and its speaker are non-negotiable institutional rules. Berri highlighted that any consultations should occur in parliament and be chaired by the Speaker, stressing that this authority is tied to the position, not the individual.

Berri criticized Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea for refusing to participate in a dialogue chaired by him, accusing Geagea of clinging to outdated notions. Berri claimed that Geagea’s actions suggest he desires federalism and does not want a president to be elected.