Transparency International Lebanon calls for justice on Beirut port explosion anniversary
As Lebanon prepares to mark the fifth anniversary of the devastating Beirut port explosion on August 4, 2020, the Lebanese branch of Transparency International has issued a strong call for justice for the victims and their families.
In a statement released ahead of the commemoration, the organization said, “On this day, which remains a deep wound in the collective memory of the Lebanese people, and despite five years marked by obstruction, interference, and stalled justice, we reaffirm that true justice for the victims and the nation must begin in the courts and be fulfilled through the establishment of a rule of law.”
Transparency International emphasized that an independent and honest judiciary is essential for accountability. "Our commitment to this principle is non-negotiable, particularly in light of the ongoing paralysis of the investigation and the political pressures aimed at derailing it," the statement continued. The investigation, led by Judge Tarek Bitar, resumed in January after a two-year suspension due to political and judicial interference.
The organization also noted that rebuilding trust between citizens and state institutions is key: “A new Lebanon cannot be built unless public trust is restored and those responsible for the destruction and loss of life are held accountable.”
Transparency International urged transparent judicial appointments, anti-corruption efforts, and comprehensive judicial reform. On Thursday, Lebanon’s Parliament passed a law aimed at freeing the judiciary from political influence. On Friday, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam signed the decree related to these judicial appointments.
Finally, the group highlighted the role of the REHUB platform (www.thereformshub.org), which offers a real-time dashboard to track reform progress and publish official documents—providing citizens and media with a tool to ensure transparency and accountability.
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