Libya’s Prime Minister of the Government-designate, Osama Hammad, has issued decision No. 171 of 2025, removing Wi’am Fathi Abdullah Al-Abdali from his position as General Manager of the General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL).
The decree, announced on Sunday, came into effect immediately and ordered all relevant authorities to implement it without delay.
The dismissal coincides with worsening power outages across eastern Libya, stretching from Benghazi to Tobruk. Residents have faced daily blackouts lasting between four to six hours due to a severe shortage of light fuel (diesel), which is essential for major power plants in North Benghazi, Zueitina, and Tobruk.
This fuel crisis has resulted in the loss of nearly 300 megawatts of production capacity, forcing operators to implement extended load shedding. The outages have sparked widespread public frustration, with many calling for urgent solutions.
The decision was accompanied by emergency government meetings aimed at resolving the electricity crisis. Discussions included securing fuel supplies for power plants, repairing stalled units, and exploring the establishment of new generation facilities.
Observers believe Al-Abdali’s removal may signal a broader restructuring of Libya’s electricity sector. The move is seen as an attempt to improve performance, restore stability to the grid, and address public anger ahead of the winter season.
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.
