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The story behind the general who will likely shape Libya's future

Gen. Khalifa Hifter's speculative role in Libya's future is as captivating as his intriguing past.

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Gen. Khalifa Hifter speaks during a news conference in Abyar, east of Benghazi, May 31, 2014. — REUTERS/Esam Omran Al-Fetori

Gen. Khalifa Hifter's star appears to be rising once again in Libya, and it is only a matter of time before we see him become a figurehead in a country that is lacking any but is eager to have one.

His enemies in Misrata and Tripoli have always questioned his motives and intentions, but it remains to be seen if he will be a uniting leader for a fragmented country or a divisive politician pushing Libya toward even more fragmentation.

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