Benghazi is gearing up for a grand celebration on 16 September, to commemorate its selection as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World. The event coincides with Martyr’s Day and the remembrance of the killing of the iconic martyr, Omar Mukhtar.
The preparations for the event were extensively discussed by the Head of the Steering Council for the municipality, Saqr Bujwari, and the Director-General of the Libyan News Agency, Ibrahim Hadiya Almajbri, who also presides over the Supreme Committee honouring Benghazi as the Cultural Capital for 2023, joined the discussion.
Bujwari addressed the significant challenges and obstacles that the committee was facing. However, he reaffirmed his unwavering support for the celebration, committing himself to overcome any hurdles to ensure that Benghazi is showcased in the best light.
On Friday, the National Anti-Corruption Commission inaugurated its new office in Benghazi, eastern Libya. Nasser Al-Warfalli, appointed by Chairman, Khalid Al-Marghani assumed the role of the office’s Head.
This development follows the implementation of Decision 40 of 2023 by Mustafa Aqdeer, the Chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Agency, regarding the appointment of Al-Marghani
Al-Marghani will commence his duties in Benghazi, with the presence of several branch directors, offices, and administrations in the eastern region, as well as prominent figures from across the country.
The commission aims to enhance its operations, broaden its reach, and effectively address corruption-related issues specific to the region.
By establishing regional offices, the Commission aims to decentralize its operations, allowing for a more comprehensive and localized approach to tackling corruption issues.
Last month, the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar has spoken out against the widespread corruption in Libya. He called for immediate action to be taken against those responsible.
In a statement, Haftar expressed his concern about the increasing poverty in Libya, while the public funds are being looted.
Haftar stated that the reports from the accounting and oversight bodies reveal shocking levels of corruption, while Libyans are becoming poorer and looting is becoming more blatant.
He added that the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) has wasted over $10 billion on specific companies, while the southern region, which produces oil, has only received 2% and 6% of $10 billion.
Haftar emphasised the need for a high-level committee to address the country’s financial arrangements, and he gave them until the end of August this year to complete their work.