Frem on Télé Liban: Bold Positions on Elections, Negotiations, and State Building “I support a Just and Honorable Peace, and My Dream Is to Visit the Tomb of Christ”

The Chairman of Project Watan’s Executive Board, MP Neemat Frem, was the guest of journalist Walid Abboud in an extended interview broadcast on Télé Liban. The wide-ranging discussion addressed Lebanon’s overall situation, from parliamentary elections to the negotiation track. The dialogue stood out for its clear, firm, and bold – yet non-populist – positions, national and sovereign par excellence.

Frem and Abboud began by discussing the notable development momentum currently witnessed in the city of Jounieh and its return to vitality and brilliance. Abboud asked whether there were concrete plans to address the city’s essential and existential needs. Frem replied: “Of course there are plans and projects. What is currently being proposed falls within the scope permitted by decentralized growth. The primary objective is to attract commercial, touristic, and economic activity back to Jounieh and to invest fully in the beauty of the city and the surrounding area. From here on, we will closely monitor how laws evolve, because decentralization begins with the existence of a local authority that enjoys broad powers and is capable of effective action.”

Abboud then asked: “Since we are speaking about decentralization, this brings us to legislation, Parliament, and the legislative session that was held. Why did you not attend?”

Frem answered: “First, for personal reasons, as I was unable to commute due to a serious fracture in my leg. This also prevented me from participating in the Pope’s visit, which I consider extremely important. But the second reason for my absence is far more significant: my embarrassment vis-à-vis the Lebanese diaspora. I cannot attend any legislative session unless a law addressing expatriate voting is placed on the agenda. I cannot participate while this issue remains unresolved.”

Asked why, despite two parliamentary confrontations, no solution has been reached, Frem explained: “Unfortunately, things repeat themselves in Lebanon. Matters stall over technical details and tactical considerations, which quickly escalate into major political positions. Each political camp has its own perspective. I personally believe the diaspora should vote for all 128 MPs, as was done previously. I respect the opposing view and its justifications. However, from a practical standpoint, we currently have a law that Speaker Nabih Berri describes as being in force, yet it lacks implementing decrees and a clear mechanism. It is legally in force but practically unenforceable. On the other hand, there is a law that is easy to implement and was applied in the past, but it is not legally in force. In both cases, a legislative session is required. The expatriate file is fundamental. Elections should be held as soon as possible – but that is a separate issue.”

Asked whether the confrontation is ultimately aimed at postponing elections, Frem replied: “At the heart of this issue lies genuine concern. In many countries, there are political forces that are unable – or afraid – to mobilize electorally. Elections today have become a much larger issue than merely an electoral law. If we look at the new narrative of Lebanon emerging after the election of a President, elections must reflect the true conscience of Lebanon’s components and serve as a genuine referendum on the next phase. We are living through a foundational moment for a new Lebanon.”

He added: “If bombing, war, and daily loss of life continue within one specific community, this referendum would be flawed. In times of bloodshed, people forget everything else, and positions turn into reactions driven by fear and a sense of threat. We would not be hearing the true voice of a key component of society. Elections must move us forward, not backward. They cannot be held before Israeli attacks and repeated targeting are halted. This requires a genuine truce backed by clear guarantees, preceded by negotiations and dialogue under the sponsorship of guarantor states.”

He continued: “If we had to choose between holding elections now or postponing them, I would lean toward holding them on time – but only if attacks and loss of life stop. If Israel chooses to negotiate under fire, then I would prefer postponement. The law is part of the problem, but only the tip of the iceberg. What lies beneath is far more important and requires a political decision.”

“In these circumstances,” he said, “elections could take us backward. What we need is to hear the true voice of the people, regardless of the outcome. The current electoral law – proportional representation with a preferential vote – can reflect that voice, provided elections are held in a calm atmosphere, free of reactionary impulses. Elections are like a photograph frozen for four years; it should not be taken in a moment of emotional reaction. Timing must therefore be linked to a genuine ceasefire, not a purely formal one on paper.”

Regarding Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab’s proposal of a two-month technical postponement until July to allow expatriates visiting Lebanon during the summer to vote, Frem said he prefers holding elections and voting abroad.

“But this requires reopening registration, as current numbers are unconvincing. Many refrained from registering due to prevailing ambiguity. This can be addressed through a technical postponement. The proposal to cancel the six seats allocated to expatriates and allow them to vote in Lebanon during the summer is not ideal, but it is possible. What matters most is not to waste this historic opportunity and to ensure that elections genuinely reflect the popular will, because the next Parliament will play a decisive role in shaping Lebanon’s future and developing its political system.”

The lawmaker continued: “Some still believe it is possible to reproduce the same political game we have played for thirty years. I am not among them. The failure to implement the Taif Agreement has plunged us into paralysis. Life moves on, people emigrate, and the diaspora succeeds abroad. If we continue this way, no one will remain here. It is time to build on solid foundations.”

Asked about alliances in Keserwan-Jbeil, Frem said: “I have suspended work on this file until the fate of the elections becomes clear. However, key alliances remain intact. Our relationship with the Kataeb Party continues, and there has been significant progress with Sheikh Farid El Khazen, alongside ongoing communication with Dr. Fares Souaid and Dr. Walid Khoury. Three weeks ago, I decided to freeze everything until the direction of the electoral process is clear.”

Asked whether this reflects concern over the next phase amid possible regional interventions, Frem replied: “Of course, but nothing is settled. Developments in Lebanon and the region are rapid – each week is equivalent to a year. What happens in Syria or Gaza quickly impacts Lebanon. This is not mere fear; indicators point in that direction. It is a miracle we have not slipped yet, and I consider the Pope’s visit a divine intervention that spared Lebanon a bloody path.”

He added: “There is a struggle between two projects: one seeks reform through decentralization and institutional change without altering borders; the other believes solutions lie in changing borders – a path filled with blood and uncertainty. I support the first project, backed by major international powers.”

Asked about President Joseph Aoun’s ability to manage this phase, Frem said: “Without a doubt. President Aoun is handling this phase with wisdom and calm. There is clear complementarity between him, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Speaker Nabih Berri, serving the interests of the State. Prime Minister Salam plays a steady role – like a diesel engine. The goal is to make the process succeed without killing the patient, and the patient is the new Lebanon, not elections themselves.”

Regarding the situation south of the Litani, Frem recalled remarks he made on the eve of Independence Day: “The fundamental mistake – which directly affected the Army Commander’s visit to Washington – has been embarrassment over what the army is doing. We are talking about 130 tunnels; why not document them? These are heroes doing their duty – why be embarrassed? The country is at risk of destruction; is this reasonable?”

He warned: “We must realize what is at stake. A war between Israel and Hezbollah would be extremely painful, but a war between Israel and Lebanon as a whole would be catastrophic. Speed is required, yet we are behind. Weapons containment should have been completed by the end of the year. Why hasn’t this been done yet? These weapons should be handed to the Lebanese Army – not destroyed, and certainly not handed to Israel. We need them.”

“If I were able to convince Hezbollah,” he added, “or if I were in a position of responsibility within it, I would organize a massive celebration to hand over all weapons – a public procession with flowers and scouts marching and playing music, flowers thrown along the road, trucks carrying weapons heading to the Ministry of Defense, with a clear message: today we support the Lebanese Army. Why doesn’t this happen? What is the logic behind not doing it?”

On negotiations, Frem expressed deep concern about sidelining the State: “It appears there is an intention to prevent serious negotiations and solutions from coming through the Lebanese State, with Hezbollah assuming this role instead. This is unacceptable.”

He continued: “We must shed light on this issue and speak about it openly. If we are a country, we must act as one. Even economists say they can no longer finance adventures undertaken by individuals who carry Lebanese nationality but do not act as part of one country. All this is currently at stake. I said it before, and I repeat today, at the end of this year, that the future of a unified Lebanon – with its borders, composition, and entity – is now in Hezbollah’s hands. The question is: does Hezbollah want this country united or not?”

Abboud then asked what Hezbollah should do, to which Frem replied: “First, strengthen State legitimacy and request it to fulfill its responsibilities, while committing to assist in implementation. Second, act solely as a political party, relying on popular legitimacy and proving that its priority is Lebanon, not foreign agendas. These positions must be translated into actions. If they begin saying and doing this, then real change will be underway.”

“What changes do you mean?” Abboud asked.

Frem answered: “What makes me open my eyes, and calls on all Lebanese to be vigilant at the end of this year, is the need for a comprehensive review of the coming year, so that we know what will happen regarding the weapons file, its linkage to the Lebanese system, and the development of that system. This is worrying and must be monitored carefully. The role of the President is crucial here, as he must retain the initiative.”

Asked whether appointing Ambassador Simon Karam met the challenge on the negotiation track, Frem said that “it was one of the best developments.”

“It was a step forward,” he stated, “almost miraculous. I connect things together, as I did with the Independence Day speech and the five points. Then the Pope’s visit occurred, and things began to take another turn.   Simon Karam was appointed, and shortly after, the President visited Oman. This visit is not a mere detail, as Oman is a successful mediator in many negotiations. These are not random moves; they are interconnected and aim to achieve results. Add to this the Egyptian initiative. Are we witnessing an integrated path, or will we hit a wall halfway, with an attempt to contain weapons pending a larger regional deal?”

“What are the indicators of such a deal,” Abboud asked. “Is it to develop the Lebanese system in a constructive and positive way, or to offer specific benefits to the Shiite community or the Shiite tandem within the system?”

Frem stressed: “This is an extremely delicate issue. If mishandled, it could mark the end of the Lebanon we know, the one we refuse to change easily. Alternatively, it could open the door to developing the system toward greater productivity. Everything depends on how it is applied, who applies it, and who leads and promotes it. It is essential for Lebanon to prove to the world that Lebanese legitimacy is in charge and capable of leadership. This gives it leverage at the internal negotiation table to develop the system. Otherwise, that leverage will fall into the hands of others – and we will all pay the price.”

Asked if he still believes, as he previously stated, that “the steering wheel is in Baabda and the brakes are in Dahieh,” Frem revealed that he does, and that this deeply worries him.

“We must be aware of this reality. Leadership must be in Baabda, but braking always comes from Dahieh. The danger is greater if this braking is deliberate, paving the way for gradually seizing the steering wheel. This is what frightens us and what we must remain alert to. The steering wheel and leadership must be in one place, and we should be serving everyone. In Lebanon, we are four brothers: Christian, Shiite, Sunni, and Druze. We cannot care for one and neglect the others. If we feed the one who cries the loudest at the expense of the others, everyone will start crying louder, and we will enter a vicious cycle.”

In closing, and in light of the headlines discussed during the interview, Abboud asked Frem whether he was optimistic or pessimistic at the end of the year. Frem said he was “optimistic, because we have stopped going in circles. At least we are taking steps forward.”

“What frightens me is that, God forbid, something happens in the coming months and we find ourselves stuck again, back in the vortex.”

Clarifying his remarks, he stressed that he did not mean a war, but rather “sweeping fundamental issues under the rug again and waiting.”

“This frightens me,” he said. “Otherwise, we are moving forward. If we launch negotiations today in a constructive and controlled manner, we may reach safety – though I fear negotiations conducted under fire.”

“Do you support peace?” Abboud then asked.

“Yes, I support reaching peace,” Frem replied, “but a just and honorable peace. I want to know what I gain from it. If peace gives me nothing, then no. But if it brings stability, allows us to invest in our oil and water resources, and enables economic and scientific revival, then yes. Let us not forget that the Pope’s visit was meant to push toward peace – in almost every speech or homily, he spoke about peace dozens of times.”

He added: “I also want to reveal something on air today. My dream is to visit the tomb of Christ. It is unacceptable that I am not allowed to. In all religions, people travel and make pilgrimages wherever they wish. They go to Mecca and perform the Umrah. So why can’t I go visit the Holy Land? Even during the most difficult periods of the conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Iranian pilgrims continued going to Mecca.”

He concluded: “I am optimistic because we have stopped standing still and have begun moving forward despite all risks. We hope that 2026 will be the year of genuine takeoff – perhaps a step toward a just and constructive peace that brings stability, allows us to invest our resources, and build a real economic revival."