On Saturday, the National Commission for Human Rights in Libya (NCHRL) held the Interior Ministry of the Government of National Unity (GNU) accountable for the suspicious death of Mohammed Al-Ramali, a prominent athlete from Yarmouk Club, during his detention at the Mayah Police Station.
In its statement, the NCHRL highlighted the serious allegations of human rights abuses, emphasising the Interior Ministry’s duty to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
The Ministry’s primary role is to safeguard its residents, making any violations under its watch especially egregious.
The Human Rights Commission is urging the Attorney General’s Office to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Al-Ramali’s death. This should include an autopsy to unveil the precise cause of his demise.
Additionally, the NCHRL is pressing for a wider inquiry into reported misconduct and potential crimes linked to the Interior Ministry’s personnel. The NCHRL is emphasising the importance of holding those responsible accountable and ensuring justice for victims.
The NCHRL further noted the prevailing issue of widespread impunity across the nation, which arguably emboldens severe human rights violations and undermines the rule of law.
Initial reports suggest that Al-Ramali might have been subjected to fatal torture, either by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department in Janzour or from the Mayah Police Station.
Media outlets have further reported that Mohammed Mansour Al-Ramali’s unexpected death followed his detention by the Criminal Investigation Department in Janzour, stemming from a criminal allegation reported on August 8th.
Libya has experienced significant political unrest and conflict since the Arab Spring in 2011, which resulted in the overthrow of long-time ruler Muammar Gaddafi. Since then, the country has been the scene of ongoing violence and instability with multiple groups vying for power.
Nonetheless, the situation remains complex and the path to peace, stability, and respect for human rights in Libya continues to be challenging. It is a multifaceted issue that requires international cooperation, comprehensive reforms, and unified effort from all Libyan parties.