The Head of the East Benghazi Court, Judge Abdelhakim Al-Ashaibi, has firmly rejected any attempts to divide Libya’s judicial authority through recent rulings issued by the Supreme Court, warning that political fragmentation must not be allowed to undermine the unity of the judiciary.
In an official statement, Al-Ashaibi said that heads and members of judicial bodies across Libya are closely monitoring developments within the judicial landscape, particularly the impact of ongoing political divisions on judicial institutions. He stressed that safeguarding the unity and independence of the judiciary remains a top priority.
Al-Ashaibi reaffirmed the judiciary’s full independence, describing it as a cornerstone of the rule of law and a fundamental pillar of the Libyan state. He warned against any actions or decisions that could threaten judicial unity or lead to institutional fragmentation, emphasizing that such moves would weaken the foundations of justice in the country.
The head of the East Benghazi Court also confirmed that all judicial bodies throughout Libya remain under the authority of the Supreme Judicial Council in its current composition, noting that it is the sole body legally responsible for overseeing the affairs of judges and members of judicial institutions.
Addressing constitutional matters, Al-Ashaibi called for postponing engagement with any outcomes related to constitutional issues until Libya adopts a permanent constitution. He cautioned that premature legal or judicial decisions in this sensitive area could further complicate the country’s political and legal landscape.
Concluding his statement, the Head of the East Benghazi Court urged all members of Libya’s judicial institutions to stand united in defense of a single, cohesive judiciary under the leadership of the Supreme Judicial Council. He stressed that Libya’s judiciary will remain unified, resilient, and independent, despite ongoing political challenges.
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.
