Tripoli authorities refuse to cede power to Libya unity government

The head of Libya's self-declared administration in the capital, Tripoli, has refused to cede power to a UN-backed unity government, contradicting an earlier pledge by his administration.

According to Press TV, Khalifa Ghweil, Chief of Tripoli's so-called National Salvation Government, in a statement on Wednesday, called on his ministers not to stand down, adding, "Given the requirements of public interest... you are requested to continue your mission in accordance with the law."

The statement threatened to prosecute anyone who cooperates with the new government.

This is while an earlier statement bearing the logo of Tripoli authority had said its prime minister, deputy premiers and cabinet ministers were all stepping aside in an attempt to "preserve the higher interests of the country and prevent bloodshed and divisions."

The latest announcement is a setback to UN-backed Prime Minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj who arrived in Tripoli in late March to assert the unity government's authority.

Upon his arrival in the capital on March 30, Sarraj said "uniting Libyans and healing divisions" were among the challenges the country is facing.

“We will work for a ceasefire across Libya, for national reconciliation and the return of displaced people, and we will seek to confront” the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, he added.

ME