What I hope to hear the deputies say

Tomorrow the parliament will start discussing the confidence vote for Marouf Bakhit's cabinet. Typically, these speeches are used for grandstanding, and to ask for local services for constituencies of the individual MP's. In essence, what I would hope to hear (or read) includes a detailed analysis of what is expected of the government, based on its program and members.

Now, it seems that everybody is in awe of Bakhit, and what is coming out is remarkably uncritical. I guess that a mixture between the blandness of the cabinet makeup, fatigue and fear are leading towards a large victory in the vote.

Nevertheless, I believe that a more critical review of what is in the program is in order. So, in the hope that some MP's might read my blog (Ha Ha), I would like to give them hints as to what Khalaf might want to hear.

1- The government should pressure the senate to expedite the discussion of the laws rejected by the house. These laws will remain in force until the senate takes a decision on them one way or another. The passage of these laws was dubious to begin with. This can be rectified by going through the proper constitutional channels. Keeping these laws on the books as the senate takes it's sweet time to discuss them is as flagrant a violation of the spirit of the constitution as their original passage. This should be a litmus test to the seriousness with which the government will treat the house.
2- The government should release the NA for general discussion. This is also true for the report of the Regions' Committee. Hiding behind the NA should at least mean that you don't hide the report.
3- In view of the expressed interest in political development, a clear statement is required saying that it is not the role of the security services to interfere with the political development in the country. This has been hinted at before, and it is time that this should be discussed frankly and openly. Saying that the laws will be reviewed simply does not go to the core of the issue.
4- The issue of privatization and where the money is spent should be open to a frank and open discussion. Past experiences are not encouraging.

I will keep my eye open for any of these points. I'm not holding my breath, though.