On Saturday, the Libyan Parliament-designated Prime Minister, Osama Hammad voiced significant concerns regarding the perceived partiality of the United Nations Mission (UNSMIL) towards the riv Government of National Unity (GNU), headed by Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba, amid allegations of widespread financial and administrative corruption.
Hamamad asserted that such corruption “has been a key factor in prolonging conflict and division within Libya,” accusing the outgoing government of “misusing public funds for corrupt practices and buying influence.”
This statement was made during the Prime Minister’s attendance at the International Anti-Corruption Day celebrations, held at the Parliament headquarters in Benghazi.
During his speech, Hammad reinforced Libya’s long-standing commitment to combating corruption. He reminded attendees that Libya joined the International Anti-Corruption Agreement in 2003, and has established laws against corruption. As well as formed the National Anti-Corruption Authority in 2014, which functions under the legislative auspices of the parliament.
The Prime Minister denounced the presence of organizations loyal to the GNU, alleging they have wasted over 180 billion dinars. He raised concerns that this corruption “could extend to their supporters, both at the international and local levels, whose ultimate objective, is the continuation of power usurpation.”
In his call to action, the Libyan Premier urged the Authority to take decisive measures against corruption. This includes “tackling illegitimate parallel bodies that unlawfully assume official roles, and rooting out individuals who have financially and administratively corrupted the Libyan public sector.”
He stressed that all government ministries and agencies “are held accountable by various supervisory, accountability, and judicial institutions, highlighting the government’s dedication to transparency and legal compliance.”
The event was attended by prominent Libyan figures, including Misbah Douma, the Second Deputy Parliament Speaker, and MP’sIbrahim Al-Zaghid, Mohamed Tamer, Rahma Abu Bakr, and Sultana Al-Mismari.
Key officials included Ajdeed Matoog, Head of the National Anti-Corruption Authority, Khalid Nijm, Head of the Administrative Control Authority, Ministers Awad Al-Badri and Abdulhadi Al-Hweij. As well as various employees of the National Anti-Corruption Authority, legal consultants, and lawyers.
Hammad’s statement underscores the complex challenges Libya faces in achieving stability and effective governance. The issue of corruption, particularly within the context of international support and intervention, remains a critical hurdle. Libya’s efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance are essential for its path toward rebuilding a stable, democratic society.