In a significant development, the Libyan parliament voted on Tuesday to terminate the term of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh’s Tripoli-based government.
The decision reflects mounting tensions and challenges within the country’s political landscape.
Parliamentary spokesman Abdullah Belhaiq announced that the assembly had voted to recognize the East Libya-based cabinet led by Osama Hammad as the “legitimate government” until a new unified administration is established.
This move underscores the ongoing struggle for governance and stability in Libya.
In addition to the change in government recognition, the parliament appointed its speaker, Aguila Saleh, as the commander of the Libyan Armed Forces, replacing the Presidency Council.
The reshuffling of leadership positions aims to address the country’s complex political dynamics.
As of now, there has been no immediate response from Prime Minister Dbeibeh’s government or the Presidency Council regarding the parliament’s decisions.
The lack of official commentary adds to the uncertainty surrounding Libya’s political future.
The situation escalated on Monday when the Presidency Council established a new agency for national referendums and inquiries.
However, this move was met with rejection by the parliament, further highlighting the divisions between the two rival administrations.
Since the ousting of longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has grappled with political instability and conflict.
The country currently operates under two competing authorities, the UN-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Dbeibeh in Tripoli, which controls the western region, and the government of Osama Hammad, appointed by the parliament, governing the eastern and southern areas from Benghazi.
Despite efforts led by the United Nations to hold parliamentary and presidential elections, progress has repeatedly stalled.
The prolonged political deadlock exacerbates security concerns in this oil-rich nation, leaving Libya at a critical crossroads.