After weeks of turmoil in Libya, with the Central Bank shuttered, salaries unpaid, and cash disappearing, two rival governments in the country seemed to be on the brink of accepting a UN-brokered agreement to resume operations. However, the situation quickly reverted to a deadlock, showcasing the ongoing power struggle in the nation.
The clash between the internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) in the west and the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the east, supported by renegade commander Khalifa Haftar, centered around control of the Central Bank of Libya. The CBL plays a crucial role in managing the nation’s access to hard currency and funding imports of essential goods like food and medicine.
The conflict over the leadership of the CBL led to a shutdown of much of the country’s oil production, further exacerbating the situation. While talks to restart operations at the CBL are ongoing, international efforts to reach a resolution have lost momentum, leaving the country in a state of uncertainty.
The ongoing power struggle in Libya has led to a deterioration in the quality of life for its citizens, with basic services failing, healthcare in disarray, and infrastructure left unrepaired. The political elites on both sides continue to profit from the chaos, with little regard for the population’s well-being.
Amidst this turmoil, Libya has become a source of instability in the region, attracting various actors with their own agendas. The overwhelming human cost, including the deaths of refugees and migrants, adds to the complexity of the situation.
The West’s diplomatic efforts in Libya have been criticized for enabling corruption and legitimizing leaders without a clear mandate. The Libyan people continue to suffer while the elites benefit from the ongoing chaos and corruption. Overall, the situation in Libya remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
