The Supreme Amazigh Council of Libya has called for the dismissal of Interior Minister Imad Al-Tarabulsi and his brother Abdullah, known as “Al-Farawla,” the head of the Public Security Agency, following an incident where the Amazigh (Berber) flag was desecrated in the capital, Tripoli. The demand was made during a protest held at Martyrs’ Square.
The council’s statement stressed the urgent need to hold those responsible for the insult to the Amazigh flag accountable and to hand them over to the Attorney General’s office immediately. The council also reiterated its call for the removal of the acting Interior Minister and the head of the Public Security Agency, holding them fully responsible for the incident.
The statement highlighted repeated attempts to provoke the Amazigh community on various occasions and called for the appointment of experienced and competent individuals to undertake security roles.
The Amazigh Council emphasized the necessity for the Government of National Unity to swiftly implement their demands.
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.
