The parties and groups of ‘April 13 Appeal’ released the following statement:
The Judicial Investigator Judge Tarek Bitar is facing blatant threats from various factions of the ruling Establishment to make him step down from the investigation of Beirut port explosion, the last of which was the threat by Hezbollah's security official Wafiq Safa. Nevertheless, Judge Bitar is holding on to the prosecution of the defendants, whether they are MPs or ministers, by scheduling hearing sessions on September 30 and October 1, 2021, since they do not have immunity before resuming the Parliament sessions. Perhaps this confrontation is one of the most noble battles, the legal battle against Wafik Safa's threat, the illegitimate suspicion of Youssef Fenianos, and the hiding of Nouhad Machnouk and Hassan Diab behind the Grand Mufti of the Republic to escape interrogation.
This is the meanest and most despicable approach followed by the corrupt ruling regime in order to undermine the judiciary, enjoy impunity, and destroy what is left of the state and institutions.
The forces of change aligned with the ‘April 13 Appeal’, and being an integral part of the Lebanese people, declare their support for Judge Bitar and refuse to leave him alone in this battle. They support him to enforce justice and implement the law in a country that is in dire need for institutions that protect citizens and restore some of their rights, particularly the victims’ families right to access justice, know the truth, and heal the wounds.