In a statement issued by him, Mohamed Hazma announced his reluctance to accept his appointment as governor of Nabatieh, out of concern for preserving institutions and respecting principles, thanking everyone who gave him confidence and support. Hazma affirmed his full respect for the laws and institutions, adding: “I do not accept that my appointment be the subject of a legal problem, or that I begin my responsibilities in the state amidst confusion that affects the integrity of its tenure.” Hazma explained that, since he applied for candidacy, he had not communicated with any of those involved in the selection or appointment process in an attempt to influence its results, pointing out that he “subjected to all the approved stages and procedures, up to the official interviews, based on his academic qualifications, professional experience, and the work program that he prepared to serve the governorate and its people.” He said: “At no stage of nomination or interviews was the issue of the age requirement raised before me, nor was I informed of the existence of any legal impediment to my appointment, noting that the law that included this condition was issued after the deadline for submitting candidacy applications had expired.” He added: "I followed the procedures required of me in good faith, and based my steps on what was issued by the relevant official authorities, leading to the Council of Ministers' decision to appoint me." He called for reopening nominations for this position according to clear conditions and criteria announced to public opinion, including age requirements, and verifying that they are met before moving on to the evaluation and interview stages. The Council of Ministers appointed Ibn Baalbek, 33 years old, as governor of Nabatieh on October 15, 2026.