Intel: Libya’s Sarraj suspends interior minister, fracturing Tripoli government
Fathi Bashagha has requested an investigation into his alleged conduct be televised.
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.
The allegiance of the militiamen was not immediately clear, but Amnesty International said the attack occurred in an area controlled by the pro-GNA Nawasi militia. The GNA has threatened to use force to disperse the protesters.
Bashagha previously voiced support for protesters demonstrating against corruption and living conditions in Misrata, Zawiya and Tripoli. His suspension came while he was in Turkey on a diplomatic visit.
