southern libyan protests shut down key oil fields highlighting deep divisions
Residents of Libya’s southern Fezzan region have taken to the streets, voicing their frustrations with inadequate infrastructure, unemployment, and a lack of access to basic necessities like healthcare and fuel. Their discontent culminated in the closure of two crucial oil fields: Sharara, with a daily production capacity of 300,000 barrels, and el-Feel.
The protesters’ demands are clear. They seek the construction of a hospital in Oubari, employment opportunities for young people in the oil sector, and the establishment of a dedicated refinery in Fezzan to address chronic fuel shortages. Abou Bakr Abou Setta, president of the Fezzan rally, stated, “This is the only card we have to put pressure on Tripoli to grant us our rights.”
Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh’s internationally recognized Libyan government in Tripoli has called for a “return to reason” and expressed disapproval of involving oil production in such grievances. However, analysts view these protests as a stark illustration of the deep political divisions plaguing the country.
Two parallel authorities vie for power in Libya. The Dbeibeh government holds sway in the west, while the east is under the control of a rival administration based in Sirte, backed by the House of Representatives in Tobruk and military strongman Khalifa Haftar. This ongoing power struggle significantly hinders efforts to address the country’s numerous challenges, including infrastructure development and improving living conditions for citizens.
The oil and gas sector is the lifeblood of Libya’s economy, generating the bulk of its revenue. In November 2023, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) reported a daily production of 1.24 million barrels, a significant achievement. However, the recent oil field closures raise concerns about potential disruptions to this vital source of income, further jeopardising the country’s already fragile economic stability.
The ongoing protests and oil field closures in southern Libya underscore the complex interplay of social discontent, political divisions, and economic vulnerability. Addressing these issues effectively requires a multifaceted approach that prioritises dialogue, inclusivity, and a commitment to equitable development across the entire nation.
A team of 80 security agents tasked with protecting the electricity grid was ambushed onMonday in Shiroro, Niger State, by…
Cryptocurrency becomes the new thing in Africa. People shift for stable alternatives aftertheir unstable local currencies. Many people believe Donald…
UAE has also distributed 30,000 food baskets to Sudanese refugees in Kiryandongo refugeecamp Uganda to benefit nearly 100,000 affected people.Aid…
The trade volume between Türkiye and 54 African countries has grown sevenfold, reaching $37 billion from 2003 to 2023, Yılmaz…
The final round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches was held this week with Tanzania, Botswana and…
'Masterpieces' Lucas Moripe passed away at his Atteridgeville home on Tuesday at his senior year of 71. His style of…
This website uses cookies.