Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Monday announced from his Tripoli residence his decision to refrain from running for parliamentary elections.

“Parliamentary elections constitute an essential junction in the course of parliamentary activity that characterizes Lebanon. Amid this delicate stage that our country endures, the overwhelming majority of the Lebanese views legislative elections as a necessary passage to move Lebanon from one stage to another and to renew the country’s political life in an advanced way,” Mikati said.

“Consequently, our government has pledged to hold elections on their set date on May 15, 2022 — with utmost integrity and transparency — and to provide all the required means for their success,” the PM added.

Mikati then renewed his call on all those wishing to run for elections to submit their candidacies before the set deadline.

“In this context, I appeal to all the Lebanese and invite them to practice their right to vote, because the desired change begins at balloting boxes,” he added.

“Because I believe in the inevitability of change, and the need to make room for the new generation to have its say through the upcoming parliamentary elections(…..), I announce my decision to refrain from running for parliamentary elections,” Mikati added, recalling his government’s successful experience holding elections back in 2005.

The Prime Minister finally reiterated his government’s intention to address the economic, financial, and social problems.

“We will place our country on the path of recovery with the help and support of all of Lebanon’s friends and brothers, and in cooperation with the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and international organizations affiliated with the United Nations,” Mikati concluded.