Lebanon PM wants agreement on new central bank chief before probe proceeds

Lebanon PM wants agreement on new central bank chief before probe proceeds

BEIRU - Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati said on Tuesday a political agreement on a new central bank governor was required before an investigation into current head Riad Salameh could progress.

He made his comments shortly after a judicial raid on the Beirut headquarters of Banque du Liban, a move Mikati denounced as inappropriate because the bank dealt with issues related to monetary stability and it could lead to an "ominous shock".

"What is required is that this file be dealt with via prior political agreement on a new governor of the Banque du Liban, and that the case take its appropriate legal course after that," a statement from Mikati's office said.

Mikati's office did not respond to a request for comment on whether discussions on replacing the governor had taken place.

Salameh, the central bank governor since 1993, faces corruption probes in at least five European countries and in Lebanon, which has been plunged into a deep financial crisis that critics blame, in part, on his policies.

He has defended his actions and denied wrongdoing, saying the investigations are politically motivated and aim at scapegoating him for the Lebanon's financial problems.

He still enjoys the support of some of Lebanon's top politicians, including Parliament Speaker