BEIRUT: Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun was quick to respond to speeches delivered during a rally Tuesday to commemorate the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, saying the speakers’ wishes won’t materialize.

Aoun said that since politicians from the opposition March 14 coalition have predicted that the current government will collapse, “God will extend its [the Cabinet’s] life.”

Speaking to reporters at a news conference in his residence in Rabieh, Aoun commented on the statements made by Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea and Kataeb (Phalange) leader Amin Gemayel.

In a speech in Downtown’s BIEL, Geagea said that every additional day of the government’s life is taking away a day from the life of Lebanon. “There is only one thing that is required from this government ... it should leave, leave and leave,” he said.

“Since they wish its [the Cabinet’s] collapse, God will extend its life,” said Aoun in response to a question asked by a reporter.