Tripoli Authorities Cede Power to Libyan Unity Government
Local Editor
The authorities in Libya's capital announced Tuesday they were ceding power to a UN-backed unity government in the interests of the divided country.
"We inform you that we are ceasing the activities entrusted to us as a legislative power, presidency, parliamentarians and ministers," said a statement, issued almost a week after prime minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj arrived in Tripoli to assert the unity government's authority.
The statement, published on the website of the justice ministry of the unrecognized Tripoli authorities, said the decision to step aside was taken to prevent further divisions and bloodshed.
Bearing the logo of the so-called National Salvation Government headed by Khalifa Ghweil, the statement announced that the Tripoli prime minister, his deputy premiers and cabinet ministers were all stepping aside.
The statement further added that the Tripoli officials decided to exit as they were committed to "preserve the higher interests of the country and prevent bloodshed and divisions" there.
The country has been in turmoil since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi, with rival forces battling for its cities and oil wealth.
Since mid-2014, Libya hosted two rival administrations after a militia alliance overran the capital, installing its authority and forcing the internationally recognized parliament to flee to the country's remote east.
Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team
