Makary: Political parties must choose balanced media officials who do not lead to plummeting discourse

In a statement released on Wednesday, the media office of Caretaker Minister of Information, Ziad Makary, reaffirmed the Ministry's longstanding commitment to freedom of expression and the right to voice opinions. 'However, the Ministry also underscores the importance of maintaining a standard of respectful discourse and urges individuals to avoid the use of vulgar language and offensive rhetoric,' the statement read. The statement specifically addressed remarks made by Charles Jabbour, the head of the Media and Communication Department of the Lebanese Forces party, which were characterized as crass and indicative of an improper mindset. 'The Ministry has taken this opportunity to remind all political parties of the need for careful selection of their spokespersons, emphasizing that such positions should not be entrusted to individuals displaying behavioral instability or intellectual imbalance, which could lead public and political discourse to new lows,' the statement added. Minister Makary's office cl arified that it would not dignify Jabbour's comments with a direct response, urging him instead to elevate his discourse if he is capable of doing so. Furthermore, the Ministry called for communication on political and public matters in a manner befitting the dignity of the Lebanese people. The statement concluded with an appeal for a calm and reasoned approach to public dialogue, stressing that refined and respectful language should guide public discourse. 'Having addressed the issue, the Ministry expresses hope that all parties would refrain from engaging in further exchanges that could provoke unnecessary and inflammatory responses,' the statement concluded. Source: National news agency - Lebanon