Libyan intelligence chief resigns
Libya’s Intelligence Chief Salim al- Hassi resigned on Thursday citing power struggle as the reason, a source from the intelligence department said.
Al-Hassi stepped down from his position due to the current political turmoil which had made it difficult for him to carry out his duties in this sensitive position.
The source added that Al-Hassi also expressed his resentment over Libya’s “two cabinets combating for legitimacy.’’
Libya is witnessing a political deadlock due to the power struggle between Prime Minister Abdullah Thinni and his newly- elected successor Ahmed Maitiq.
Maitiq, a businessman from Libya’s third largest city of Misrata, was sworn in as prime minister last month.
But he was immediately challenged by Thinni and some judicial officials who charged that the earlier parliamentary confidence vote which confirmed Maitiq as the new prime minister was invalid.
According to him, less than half of the lawmakers, mostly Maitiq’s supporters attended the session.
Thinni had refused to transfer power, although forces allegedly loyal to Maitiq have occupied the government compound.
Libya’s Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that Maitiq’s election violated the constitution “in principle.’’
But the court also adjourned a final ruling on Maitiq’s legitimacy to next Monday.
Some analysts said the ruling may set the stage for a more intense power struggle between different interest groups.
(NAN)
