The Prime Minister of Libya’s House of Representatives-appointed government, Osama Hammad, has announced the appointment of Major General Abdulmonem Mohammed Al-Mahshahsh as the new head of the Municipal Guard Authority under his government’s jurisdiction.
According to the official decree shared on the government’s Facebook page, Major General Mohammed Abdullah Abu Faris has been relieved of his duties as the head of the Municipal Guard Authority.
Major General Al-Mahshahsh previously served as the Director of the Municipal Guard Branch in Benghazi. During his tenure, he spearheaded several field campaigns aimed at regulating public spaces, ensuring city security, and overseeing professional activities in collaboration with the Notaries Association.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
