Armed Militias in Libya Push for Political Control
Libya’s armed militias are consolidating their authority in key parts of the country and pushing to entrench their power politically.
Ironically, former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi claimed in his final days, “I am in the heart of all Libyans, how can I step down?” at a time when the cry from the Libyan people was an unequivocal “Go!”
Tragically, two years later, his claim holds more than a hint of truth. Through control of education and the media, Gadhafi had created a nation of clones who today, after his downfall, are unwittingly or unconsciously reciting the same mantra. Ingrained in this mantra is the culture of conquest and bounty, otherwise known as theft of public funds.
The rampant economic corruption which unfolded after the conclusion of the armed conflict could put any veteran Gadhafi-era kleptomaniac to shame.
The most blatant case of corruption started almost immediately in a program to provide injured fighters with medical care abroad. Former health minister Fatma Al-Hamroush spoke of a sum approaching $2 billion spent in 45 countries, yet less than 15% of the money was spent on its intended purpose. Instead, cash was squandered on anything and everything a medical facility could turn a profit from, including tummy tucks, lip enhancement, tattoo removal, electrolysis, nose jobs and breast enhancement.
