Major football clubs in Tripoli have officially announced their stance regarding the ongoing crisis with the Libyan Football Federation. The clubs condemned the Federation’s decisions and called for comprehensive reforms, stressing the importance of approving local stadiums and hosting matches with fans in attendance.
In a statement, Tripoli’s prominent clubs—including Al Ahli Tripoli, Al Ittihad, Al Madina, Al Wahda, Al Zahra, and Bani Walid—declared the suspension of all sporting activities. They also demanded the resignation of the Libyan Football Federation and emphasized the need for new elections, urging a vote of no confidence in the current leadership, according to Al-Anbaa newspaper on Facebook.
Additionally, the clubs called for a General Assembly to be convened. Last Tuesday, the First Vice President of the Libyan Football Federation, Khamis Adam, held a press conference at the headquarters of the Libyan Olympic Committee on Omar Al-Mukhtar Street in Tripoli. During the conference, Adam presented a roadmap and requested the General Assembly to be convened by no later than October 15.
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.
