NNA - Justice Minister, Adel Nassar, on Friday outlined his judicial priorities in an interview with MTV, emphasizing the need for judicial appointments, the approval of a judicial independence law, and removing obstacles hindering the indictment in the Beirut Port explosion case.  

Addressing political interference in the judiciary, Nassar acknowledged its existence but stressed that many judges remain unaffected. 

Nassar called for strengthening judicial oversight and ensuring judges have proper working conditions. 

Moreover, the Justice Minister affirmed that his ministry does not intervene in cases but acts to protect judges from external pressures.  

Regarding judicial appointments, Nassar stated he would sign any presented to him, expressing confidence in Supreme Judicial Council head Souheil Abboud. He also pledged to push for judges to sever ties with political parties and improve their working conditions.  

On the Beirut Port investigation, Nassar confirmed that Judge Tarek Bitar has resisted political pressure. He stressed that issuing an indictment is essential for state-building, vowing to clear obstacles and protect the judge.  

Asked about a general amnesty, Nassar questioned, “How can we promote accountability while endorsing a general amnesty?”

===========R.H.