Intel: Libya’s Sarraj suspends interior minister, fracturing Tripoli government

Fathi Bashagha has requested an investigation into his alleged conduct be televised.
President of the Presidency Council of the Government of National Accord of Libya Faiez Mustafa Serraj delivers a speech at the UN Human Rights Council's main annual session on February 24, 2020 in Geneva. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP) (Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images)
Prime Minister of the Government of National Accord of Libya Fayez al-Sarraj delivers a speech to the UN Human Rights Council on Feb. 24, 2020, in Geneva. - FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images
Al Monitor: The Pulse of the Middle East
Al-Monitor Staff

Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj of Libya’s Government of National Accord (GNA) suspended Misratan-born Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha on Friday, setting up a major split within the Tripoli-based government that threatens progress toward a cease-fire in the wider civil war.

Sarraj suspended Bashagha, a former militia leader, after protests against living conditions turned violent in Tripoli last week. Sarraj ordered a curfew, citing the coronavirus, and promised an investigation after militiamen fired on protesters in Tripoli last Sunday. At least six protesters were reportedly abducted.

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