2 Lebanon ministers resign over inefficiency

BEIRUT – The leader of a Lebanese Christian party says its two ministers are resigning from the Cabinet in protest over corruption and government inefficiency.

Sami Gemayel, head of the Phalange Party, said Tuesday that Labor Minister Sejaan Azzi and Economy Minister Alain Hakim were resigning “because we believe Lebanon needs a positive shock.”

His party has been complaining about the government’s handling of a trash crisis. Garbage piled up in the streets of Beirut for over eight months before a temporary solution was reached in March.

Gemayel is pushing for a permanent solution that would prevent new landfills from threatening a waterfront development project.

The resignation brings to three the number of ministers who have resigned this year from the 24-member government, which is paralyzed by infighting.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.