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Nawaf Salam, a former judge at the International Court of Justice and reformist candidate for Lebanese prime minister, has attracted attention for his declarations in favor of an ambitious program of political and economic reforms. His remarks, relayed by various media, reflect a desire to break with traditional practices which have led Lebanon to a deep crisis. However, his speech also raises questions about the feasibility of his promises in a highly polarized political context.
A reforming vision for a system in crisis
In a statement reported by Nida’ Al Watan (January 13, 2025)Nawaf Salam affirmed that “Lebanon needs an overhaul of its political system, based on transparency, accountability and the independence of institutions”. He particularly insisted on the need to reform the public sector, which he considers to be plagued by corruption and inefficiency.
Its program is structured around three priorities:
- The independence of the judiciary : Salam pleads for a depoliticized justice, capable of guaranteeing impartial investigations into corruption cases. Al Bina’ (January 13, 2025) underlines that this reform is central to restoring citizens’ confidence.
- Economic restructuring : It proposes a complete audit of the banking sector and public finances, in response to the persistent economic crisis. Salam said “losses must be fairly distributed among banks, large depositors and the state, while protecting small savers.”
- Strengthening the rule of law : He advocates strict application of laws and governance based on transparency, in order to attract foreign investment and revive the national economy.
A speech aligned with international expectations
Salam’s statements also found a favorable response from certain international partners. Ad Diyar (13 January 2025) reports that French and American diplomats praised his commitment to structural reforms, seen as essential to unlocking international aid. Salam affirmed that “Lebanon can no longer afford to play on several fronts: we must choose the path of transparency and reforms”.
However, this positioning has earned him criticism from his opponents, who accuse him of being too aligned with the demands of international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Al Akhbar (January 13, 2025) reports that conservative parliamentarians believe his proposals risk jeopardizing Lebanon’s economic sovereignty.
Major internal challenges
Despite his ambitious speech, Salam faces significant resistance within parliament. Al Liwa’ (January 13, 2025) underlines that several traditional blocs, including “Tayyar al-Watani al-Horr”, remain reluctant to support an outsider perceived as distant from local political realities. Furthermore, political forces allied to Hezbollah view its reforms as a threat to their influence.
Furthermore, Salam must overcome divisions within the reformist forces themselves. Al Sharq (January 13, 2025)notes that some reform factions favor a more moderate approach, while Salam insists on a radical break with the current system.
An opportunity or a utopia?
Nawaf Salam’s statements have galvanized part of Lebanese public opinion, tired of political compromises and inaction in the face of the crisis. However, the realization of his program will depend on his ability to transform this popular support into a solid parliamentary coalition.
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