Libya's self-proclaimed government cedes power to UN-backed body

Libyan prime minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj (AFP file photo)

Tripoli (IINA) – Libya’s self-proclaimed government has resigned, a move that helps efforts by a new, UN-backed Government of National Accord to assert itself in the capital Tripoli despite opposition from some local militias.
In a statement, the Tripoli-based National Salvation government said it would “cease duties” as executive authority, and therefore absolve itself of responsibility for the country’s fate, according to The Guardian.
“We put the interests of the nation above anything else, and stress that the bloodshed stop and the nation be saved from division and fragmentation,” the statement read.
The new unity government is viewed as the best hope for ending Libya’s chaos and uniting all factions against the Islamic State (IS) affiliate, which has seized the central city of Sirte. Another government, based in the eastern city of Tobruk, still opposes the UN-backed body.
Last week, members of Libya's UN-brokered unity government arrived in Tripoli, a step unanimously welcomed by the UN Security Council, saying it was time to cut off ties with rival administrations.
The Council's statement came after prime minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj made his first public appearance in the Libyan capital.
AB/IINA

Let's block ads! (Why?)