Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi criticized the delay in the formation of a new government, reported the National News Agency Wednesday.He stressed the need to form a new cabinet because the “delay cannot persist longer than this.” 

He made his remarks upon his arrival in Sao Paolo, Brazil as part of his ongoing tour of South America.Al-Rahi also emphasized the need for political powers to reach an agreement over a new parliamentary electoral law, “which should offer fair representation to all Lebanese.”

To that end, he also highlighted the importance of holding the elections as scheduled on June 16.Prime Minister-designate Tammam Salam is seeking the formation of a cabinet of national interests that will be able to hold the elections.The March 8 camp is seeking the formation of a political cabinet, while the rival March 14 alliance is demanding the establishment of a neutral one.

Political parties have so far failed to reach an agreement on a new electoral law, which is threatening the postponement of the polls.