Renegade Libyan General ‘Suspends’ Parliament
Militiamen loyal to a retired Libyan general say they have “suspended” parliament after launching an attack against the legislative body.
Renegade forces commanded by former general Khalifa Haftar on Sunday stormed the parliament building in Tripoli, firing weapons and ransacking lawmakers’ offices.
Dark smoke could be seen billowing into the air from the building.
Unconfirmed reports say two people were killed and about 50 others wounded in the violence.
Early Monday, Libya’s interim government condemned the attack.
It is not clear if ex-general Haftar has the forces to maintain control in Tripoli.
Officials say the militia attacked the building in an attempt to arrest Islamist lawmakers. However, the lawmakers were evacuated from the building before the attack.
A security official said the gunmen also closed the road leading to the General National Congress and shelled a nearby military base controlled by an Islamist militia.
Forces loyal to the renegade general also control several zones in southern Tripoli around the capital’s airport.
The violence in Tripoli came after deadly fighting in the eastern city of Benghazi on Friday between the general’s so-called “National Army” and Islamist militiamen.
Libya’s parliament is divided between Islamist and non-Islamist forces who have argued over appointing a new government and holding new elections. Recently, Islamists backed the naming of a new prime minister, despite walkouts from the non-Islamist groups.
(VOA)
