The Libyan capital prepares for celebrating the first anniversary of the revolution Tripoli – Emad Agag The Libyan capital prepares for celebrating the first anniversary of the February revolution which toppled the regime of Muammar Gaddafi, following crackdowns and battles that lasted for nine consecutive months.
Media sources reported that residents, along with local councils, civil society organisations, and rebels are organising several activities, hanging decorations and banners in streets, schools, and public foundations, and raising flags of independence in streets and squares.
Some of the banners read “February 17 revolution marks the history of free Libya” and “Glory and immortality to February 17 heroes.”
In the same context, around 30 thousand rebels participated in a military parade held in Tripoli before the celebrations, under the auspices of Libyan Rebels Brigades, which included various groups of rebels’ brigades and battalions of the military junta in the Western district who have fought Gaddafi.
On a different note, chairman of the Libyan National Transitional Council Mustafa Abdul Jalil stated that the recent clashes in Kufra city, south Libya, have nothing to do with foreign intervention, saying they are rather “problems between internal components of the city.. a ‘civil war’ ignited by thugs of the former regime of Muammar Gaddafi.”
Abdul Jalil said, in statements on Libya Hurra TV that special battalions of the National Army were sent to Kufra to disperse clashes, in addition to sending representatives from civil organisations from Benghazi to look into the situation and resolve the issue. He indicated that military planes moved some of the wounded to Benghazi for treatment.
He noted that the issues of water and power cut in the city are being dealt with and “shall return within a couple of days”, adding that aids and large supplies of medicine have been sent to Kufra.
Abdul Jalil denied rumours that Libya is facing the danger of the intervention of foreign forces, saying that such news are propagated by remnants of the former regime.
“Thugs of the former regime try to destabilise [the country] and cause confusion aiming to obstruct the goals of the Libyan people,” he said, stressing that the National Congress elections will be safe.
NTC chairman stated that the last draft of the election law will be issued next week following several amendments aiming to meet the requirements of the Libyan people. He called on rebels to join the National Army and security in providing protection and security to civilians, noting that activating transitional justice and courts requires security and stability.
On the occasion of the February revolution anniversary, Abdul Jalil announced that the Libyan NTC is to issue 1000 dinars to each husband and wife, and 200 dinars to every child or unmarried individual.