Independence Movement leader Michel Moawad warned Wednesday following a meeting with former President Michel Sleiman that Lebanon was facing existential threats amid paralysis in government institutions.

“Lebanon is facing existential threats that target its borders, entity and political regime. Yet, the cabinet remains paralyzed at a time when our politicians should be discussing the election of a president and the revival of state institutions,” Moawad said.

He added that the election of a president should represent a top priority for political factions that make up the government.

“Issues that should be on the Cabinet’s agenda are not being discussed while issues such as the garbage crisis, which should be the responsibility of municipalities if administrative decentralization was to be implemented, are being discussed by the cabinet but to no avail,” Moawad said.

The Independence Movement leader urged the implementation of administrative decentralization in a bid to bolster transparency and promote rural development.

“Political decision making should be centralized particularly when it comes to issues pertaining to Lebanon’s sovereignty whereas economic development should be decentralized to curb corruption,” Moawad argued.