As Prime Minister designate Tamman Salam consults with the various political factions on the

size, nature, and composition of his government, disagreement over who is to head the Ministry of Energy – given the great financial stakes involved – could delay the formation of this and future cabinets.

Lebanon hopes to enjoy windfall profits from offshore gas and oil reserves in the coming years, and the Minister of Energy will wield important influence over the sector. Potentially, this means it will become a prime patronage tool.....continue reading