Libya: Tripoli authorities agree to cede power to UN-backed govt

The Tripoli based authority in Libya has finally agreed to cede political authority to the United Nations (UN) backed unity government being led by Prime Minister designate Fayez al-Sarraj.

The unrecognised Tripoli authority in a statement received by AFP said its decision to cede power to a UN-backed unity government was to avoid further sectarian clashes, portions of the statement read the decision was to “preserve the higher interests of the country and prevent bloodshed and divisions.”

Their statement comes almost a week after PM designate arrived in the capital via the sea to assert the unity government’s authority.

The latest development in the political situation in the north African country means that the UN backed government can take full political control in trying to steer Libya back onto the path of recovery after months of turmoil.

“We inform you that we are ceasing the activities entrusted to us as an executive power,” the announcement said.

The oil-rich country was plunged into chaos following the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi, in the wake of which rival forces have been battling for its cities and oil wealth.

The country has hosted two rival administrations since mid-2014 after a militia alliance overran the capital, installing its authority and forcing the internationally recognised parliament to flee to the country’s remote east.

The chaos has also seen the infiltration of the Islamic State into areas of Sirte and Benghazi even though they have been pushed out of Benghazi in the recent past.

AFP