Dec 9, 2023. Posted by Balkan Periscope - Hellas
Hamamad asserted that such corruption “has been a key factor in prolonging conflict and division within Libya,” accusing the outgoing government of “misusing public funds for corrupt practices and buying influence.”
This
statement was made during the Prime Minister’s attendance at the International
Anti-Corruption Day celebrations, held at the Parliament headquarters in
Benghazi.
During his
speech, Hammad reinforced Libya’s long-standing commitment to combating
corruption. He reminded attendees that Libya joined the International
Anti-Corruption Agreement in 2003, and has established laws against corruption.
As well as formed the National Anti-Corruption Authority in 2014, which
functions under the legislative auspices of the parliament.
The Prime
Minister denounced the presence of organizations loyal to the GNU, alleging
they have wasted over 180 billion dinars. He raised concerns that this
corruption “could extend to their supporters, both at the international and
local levels, whose ultimate objective, is the continuation of power
usurpation.”
In his call
to action, the Libyan Premier urged the Authority to take decisive measures
against corruption. This includes “tackling illegitimate parallel bodies that
unlawfully assume official roles, and rooting out individuals who have
financially and administratively corrupted the Libyan public sector.”
He stressed
that all government ministries and agencies “are held accountable by various
supervisory, accountability, and judicial institutions, highlighting the
government’s dedication to transparency and legal compliance.”
The event
was attended by prominent Libyan figures, including Misbah Douma, the Second
Deputy Parliament Speaker, and MP’sIbrahim Al-Zaghid, Mohamed Tamer, Rahma Abu
Bakr, and Sultana Al-Mismari.
Key
officials included Ajdeed Matoog, Head of the National Anti-Corruption
Authority, Khalid Nijm, Head of the Administrative Control Authority, Ministers
Awad Al-Badri and Abdulhadi Al-Hweij. As well as various employees of the
National Anti-Corruption Authority, legal consultants, and lawyers.
Hammad’s
statement underscores the complex challenges Libya faces in achieving stability
and effective governance. The issue of corruption, particularly within the
context of international support and intervention, remains a critical hurdle.
Libya’s efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance
are essential for its path toward rebuilding a stable, democratic society.
Libyan Review
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