MP Gebran Bassil announced that the Free Patriotic Movement decided not to participate in the new government, in remarks to reporters following the Strong Lebanon parliamentary bloc's consultations with Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati on Tuesday.

"Mikati was designated without our approval and nomination; this is another proof that we do not form a majority," Bassil said.

"We have clearly announced our decision not to partake in the government, which means we will not interfere in the formation process," he added.