The Lebanese Parliament has thus far been unable to come to an agreement on those who will leave Aoun in this role, which has the power to approve cabinet formations prior to votes in the parliament, sign draught legislation, appoint new ministers, and sign off on new ministers.
With the attempt of the Prime Minister-designate for six months to form a cabinet, Lebanon is currently governed by a transitional administration, as was the case for more than half of Aoun’s time in the president.
Aoun signed a deal to mark the southern maritime border between Lebanon and Israel during his final week in the palace, which was mediated by the United States.
Since the civil war that lasted from 1975 to 1990, he had already left the presidency on many occasions.
The politicians stepped up their efforts to reach a consensus on a new government led by Sunni Prime Minister-designate Naguib Mikati, who is currently in charge of the caretaker government, as the presidential authorities could transfer to the new government, as they anticipated another power vacuum.
Today is Michel Aoun’s last day at work, and he issues a caution against descending into constitutional emptiness.
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