On Monday, the Supreme Council of Libyan Tribes voiced its rejection of the outcomes of recent negotiations held outside the country. It claimed that the participants do not represent all Libyan parties and were not chosen to express the Libyan people’s will.
In a statement, the council said: “We reject any outcomes based on sectarian quotas that endanger the country’s unity.” The statement also reiterated the council’s commitment to the dismantling of militias and the expelling foreign mercenaries from Libya. It also announced its complete solidarity and support for the ongoing protests throughout the country. Demonstrators have come out against poor living conditions, notably the frequent power outages, severe shortage of fuel, and lack of public services.
In its statement, the council warned against re-appointing anyone in the current government, into a future governmental position. In fact, the council claimed that current officials were responsible for the people’s suffering due to their failure to uphold the national interest and protect the country’s sovereignty.
The council also stressed the need to expedite preparations for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections. This is in order to prevent any foreign interference that would further exacerbate the crisis.
Notably, Libya’s eastern-based Interim Government, headed by Abdullah Al-Thinni has submitted its resignation to the Libyan Parliament Speaker, Ageela Saleh. This came during an urgent meeting held by Saleh on Sunday evening, to discuss the demands of the demonstrators in Benghazi.