Beirut: The Public Sector Associations, representing civilian and military personnel, retirees, teachers, and contractors, have announced a general strike starting Monday, August 10, in protest against a Cabinet decree allowing the installment payment of retroactive financial dues. In their announcement, the associations emphasized their discontent with the decree, which they argue violates existing laws and disregards the State Council's opinion, demanding that all dues be paid in full and as a single payment.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, the associations have accused the Finance Minister of undermining the government's salary and pension reform plan. They argue that the Minister is leveraging the lack of available funds as an excuse to delay the rightful payments to employees and retirees. In their statement, they urged the government to withdraw the decree immediately and adhere to Law 44/2026. They issued a warning that if their demands are not met, the strike will escalate into further protests and sit-ins.

The associations highlighted that the issue extends beyond financial payments. It is also centered on respect for the rule of law and the rights of public-sector employees, military personnel, retirees, and other beneficiaries. They are calling for government accountability and adherence to the legal frameworks that protect these groups' entitlements.