The investigative authority of the Libyan Attorney General’s Office has ordered the detention of the Minister of Oil in the Government of National Unity (GNU), along with his Office Director.
A deputy prosecutor at the Attorney General’s Office investigated the deviation of the two accused from the duties entrusted to them. The investigation revealed that their actions were inconsistent with the requirements of their positions.
They allegedly pressured a company accounting official to approve a document authorizing the disbursement of €457.6 million to a foreign company in violation of regulations. Consequently, the investigator concluded that the accused should be detained pending further investigation.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The country 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.
