On Thursday, the Ministry of Interior of Libya’s Government of National Unity announced the cancellation of an arrest warrant issued against Libyan citizen Abdulrahman Qaja by Tunisian authorities.
“Following instructions from the GNU Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbaiba, we communicated with Tunisian authorities through the Arab and International Criminal Police Office at the Ministry of Interior to cancel the arrest warrant issued against him,” the ministry stated.
Efforts are now underway to repatriate Abdulrahman Qaja to Libya, coordinated with Saudi authorities. Qaja has been detained in Saudi Arabia since last Ramadan based on an international arrest warrant issued by Interpol’s Tunisian office.
The case of Abdulrahman Qaja underscores the complexities and challenges Libyan authorities face in protecting their citizens abroad. Since the 2011 revolution, Libya has grappled with internal conflicts and political instability, impacting its ability to provide consular support and protection to nationals in foreign countries.
Qaja’s arrest during Ramadan drew attention to the collaborative efforts between Libya, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia in addressing international legal and diplomatic issues. The cancellation of the arrest warrant highlights the importance of diplomatic negotiations and intergovernmental cooperation in resolving such cases.
Interpol’s involvement indicates the international dimension of the case, as arrest warrants issued by member countries are respected and acted upon globally. The cancellation of the warrant required coordinated diplomatic efforts, reflecting Libya’s commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of its citizens abroad.
The Ministry of Interior’s statement emphasizes the proactive role of Libya’s Government of National Unity in securing the release and safe return of its citizens. This move is part of broader efforts to restore Libya’s diplomatic relations and international standing.
As Libya continues to navigate its post-revolution landscape, the government’s ability to effectively manage international legal and diplomatic challenges will be crucial in restoring confidence among its citizens and strengthening its global relations.