Lebanon's newly elected parliament elected Nabih Berri Speaker Tuesday, setting in motion the process of forming a new government under Fouad Seniora's premiership.

Berri won by a comfortable majority of 90 votes against one for Bassem Al Sabaa, who did not stand, and 37 white ballots, Naharnet reported.

"I pledge to work tirelessly for the accomplishment of the people's aspirations and for the consolidation of the citizens in their state, not in the regime," Berri said in a speech upon his reelection.

Berri also vowed an unflinching war against corruption, pledging to 'open all files for accountability.' He also pledged to work for a pan-Arab human rights charter.

© 2005 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)