On Saturday, the National Council for Human Rights in Libya (NCHRL) appealed to Attorney General, Al-Siddiq Al-Sour to prompt the government to ensure the timely execution of court decisions.
This request comes amid concerns over the delayed implementation of judicial rulings, seen as a violation of justice, and an erosion of the rule of law in Libya.
In a public statement, the institution emphasised the “vital role of law enforcement, particularly the Ministry of the Interior and other security agencies, in effectively carrying out their duties. A key focus is guaranteeing victims, and those harmed by crimes have access to justice. This involves facilitating the initiation of investigations at all times, and improving operations related to investigating human rights violations, and crimes that impact the safety and security of society.
The institution also reaffirmed its confidence in the judiciary’s ability to track down, and prosecute those responsible for severe human rights violations, breaches of international humanitarian law, and various criminal acts.
Moreover, the institution urged all citizens, community leaders, social groups, and municipalities to “collaborate fully with judicial authorities in law enforcement and the fight against crime and organised crime.” It stressed the importance of “not providing any social shelter or protection to lawbreakers, contributing to the establishment and enforcement of law and justice throughout Libya.”
The call by the NCHRL is set against the backdrop of Libya’s challenging transition towards stability, and governance following the 2011 uprising. The effective and prompt implementation of judicial rulings is critical in this context, as it lays the foundation for justice and reinforces the rule of law – essential elements in Libya’s path to reconciliation and rebuilding.
Highlighting the role of law enforcement in ensuring access to justice underlines the broader challenges of restoring order in a nation recovering from prolonged conflict and instability. The effectiveness of the Libyan judiciary in dealing with human rights abuses and crimes is key to rebuilding public confidence, and progressing towards democratic governance.