Widespread protests erupted across Tripoli on Friday as thousands demanded the resignation of the Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah. The demonstrations come amid escalating political instability following reports of key resignations from senior government officials and violent clashes in the capital.
Local media outlets reported that the public outcry was triggered by recent deadly confrontations in the city, fueling frustrations over the GNU’s ability to maintain security and governance. The wave of resignations reportedly includes the deputy prime minister and several ministers responsible for local governance, trade and industry, higher education, housing, and water resources. However, the GNU swiftly refuted these claims, affirming that all senior officials remain in office and continue to perform their duties.
In a statement addressing the unrest, the GNU called for protests to remain peaceful, urging citizens to exercise their right to assembly within legal frameworks and with respect for state institutions.
The violence erupted earlier this week following the killing of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, known as Ghaniwa, a senior commander in the Stability Support Apparatus (SSA), a powerful militia aligned with Libya’s Presidency Council. Ghaniwa was killed inside a facility controlled by the 444 Brigade, a rival armed group loyal to Prime Minister Dbeibah.
This assassination sparked intense clashes between the SSA and the 444 Brigade, spreading to residential areas in central Tripoli and resulting in at least six fatalities before a ceasefire was negotiated on Wednesday.
The GNU announced on Thursday that calm had returned to the capital, though tensions remain high.
Since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that led to the fall of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi, Libya has remained deeply divided. The country is split between the internationally recognized GNU based in Tripoli and an eastern administration supported by the Libyan National Army under Khalifa Haftar.
Despite ongoing international efforts to unify Libya’s fractured security apparatus, armed militias continue to wield significant influence within GNU-controlled areas. These groups often clash violently, undermining attempts to stabilize the country and posing ongoing challenges to national reconciliation.
The recent unrest in Tripoli underscores the fragile nature of Libya’s political transition and the urgent need for renewed dialogue to prevent further escalation.