Head of the Independence Movement Michel Moawad urged Friday lawmakers to elect a president, warning that a prolonged presidential vacuum would further weaken state institutions.

Following a meeting with Prime Minister Tamam Salam at the Grand Serail in Beirut, Moawad said the failure to elect a president will deal another blow to already-weakened state institutions particularly after lawmakers extended the term of parliament, casting doubt over its legitimacy.

“I stressed during my visit to the prime minister that we are committed to supporting the state despite flaws in many institutions. I honestly say to the Lebanese that the state cannot continue to function under the current circumstances,” Moawad said.

Moawad added that the presidential vacuum is hampering the work of state institutions particularly the Cabinet which is required to secure the unanimous approval of all 24 ministers on any decision before it is passed.

“Under the presidential vacuum, all 24 ministers are acting as presidents, which is deepening divisions among Lebanese factions and negatively weighing on the security situation,” Moawad argued.

“In the absence of a president, investments will not flow to Lebanon, the work of state institutions will be obstructed and reform will be impossible. The election of a president is crucial since it affects the everyday life and future of our people.”

Moawad also touched on the issue of the kidnapped Lebanese security forces and voiced confidence that the government will pursue its efforts to free soldiers in captivity.