Libya’s PM: Eliminating Militias Is an ‘Ongoing Project’ as Ceasefire Holds

Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Al-Dbeibah said eliminating militias is an ongoing effort amid a ceasefire following deadly clashes in Tripoli, Arab News reported. “We will not spare anyone involved in corruption or extortion,” he said, emphasizing a vision for a Libya free of militias and corruption.

The clashes erupted after Dbeibah ordered armed groups dismantled, resulting in at least eight civilian deaths. The fighting followed the killing of militia chief Abdulghani Kikli (“Ghaniwa”) and the defeat of his Stabilization Support Apparatus (SSA) group, aligned with the Presidential Council and based in Abu Salim.

The government found nine decomposed bodies in an SSA-controlled hospital morgue, which had not been reported to authorities. Dbeibah praised security forces for their “successful operation” in Abu Salim, part of his plan to eliminate armed groups outside official institutions.

Meanwhile, three ministers resigned amid protests demanding Dbeibah’s ouster. He dismissed some protests as paid but acknowledged some genuine discontent.

The UN Support Mission expressed concern over the violence and urged protection of civilians and property. Libya remains unstable since the 2011 uprising, with rival factions controlling east and west. Despite turmoil, oil operations continue normally, according to the National Oil Corporation.