Hammad government accuses UN mission of “deliberately distorting” people’s demands
The eastern-based interim government led by Osama Hamad responded to a UN mission statement on recent protests in Libya, accusing it of deliberately misrepresenting popular demands, making irresponsible accusations, and manipulating international opinion in a way that does not reflect the reality on the ground.
In its statement, Hammad’s government rejected what it called the mission’s portrayal of the protests as a conspiracy or incitement to violence, stressing this depiction misrepresents the truth.
The government said the protests were a natural expression of growing public anger over the UN mission’s performance, which it claimed had failed to achieve tangible progress for over a decade and, intentionally or not, contributed to the complexity of Libya’s crisis.
It added that the UN mission’s transgressions have become clear, especially in relation to state security, sovereignty, and direct interference in internal affairs. The government called on the mission to respect its mandate and refrain from overstepping its role.
This response followed a UN statement expressing concern over alleged incitement by political figures encouraging protesters to engage in unlawful acts against the mission. The UN reaffirmed its full respect for the right to peaceful protest and its willingness to engage in a Libyan-led political process.
The Hammad government urged the mission to maintain neutrality and professionalism and avoid undermining the legitimate demands of the Libyan people, while the UN continues monitoring developments closely.
