On the first anniversary of the 17 February Revolution, LFJL congratulates all Libyans and warns of threats

Lawyers for Justice in Libya (LFJL) would like to congratulate all Libyans on the first anniversary of the 17 February Revolution. LFJL is proud of the accomplishments of the Libyan people in achieving freedom and ending a reign of oppression. The 42 years of the Gaddafi regime left Libya with an inheritance of human rights abuses, abuses of, and by, the justice system, discrimination, corruption and a lack of state institutions, all of which resulted in a state void of the rule of law. The overthrow of the dictatorial regime marked a unique opportunity for the Libyan population to rebuild a state based on human rights, the rule of law and democracy. 

On the anniversary of the revolution, LFJL reminds all that it was a revolution that was motivated by justice for all and impunity for none.  In particular, LFJL reminds the National Transitional Council (NTC) and the interim government of their positive obligation to protect all those under their custody from injustice and torture. The recent reports of human rights violations by armed militias, as confirmed by testimonies obtained by LFJL’s partners, and the inability of the interim government to bring national security under its control, threaten Libya’s transition to a state of human rights, the rule of law and democracy.   LFJL is disturbed by the testimonies obtained by its partners of torture and extrajudicial killings in custody and calls on the NTC and the interim government to take responsibility for all acts occurring in their name, directly or indirectly.  LFJL demands that the interim government immediately open investigations into all alleged violations and bring those responsible to justice.

 “On this day, we must not repeat the errors of the past where impunity reigned over accountability; we must remember the reason so many have lost their lives over the last year and in the 42 years before that: to ensure a Libya that guarantees dignity and human rights to all those who live in it – regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation,” said LFJL director Elham Saudi, “the 17 February Revolution should not give legitimacy to acts which are illegitimate under international law and our conscious.” 

Lawyers for Justice in Libya (LFJL) is an independent non-governmental organisation working to protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms in Libya.  Any queries to LFJL should be made through info@libyanjustice.org

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