There is a dangerous road that Libya could be embarking on if the situation in the country is left uncontrolled. The dramatic changes witnessed with the fall of a dictatorship should be an opening to build a better future for the nation. Hence, it is essential that a sense of leadership and direction becomes more visible and strongly felt by the citizens.
Last Wednesday, the Libyan army attacked a group based in the area of Bani Walid which is linked to Muammar Gaddafi. The attack left at least 11 people dead. This is one area where loyalty to the former dictator has not faded and the authorities have continuously clashed with various armed groups. This of course is not an isolated incident as there have been numerous such incidents where government forces have been locked in continuous clashes with strongholds of militia groups.
The frequency of government clashes with militia groups and the very fact that the government is still attempting to eliminate them is alarming. It has been more than a year now since the ground reality in Libya changed drastically with the fall of the previous regime. However, if until today militias are still active and strong, the future of Libya will no doubt be in danger. The fact that these militias are still surviving means that the government is weak or has failed in establishing law and order across the country. It is also indicative of the fact that such groups have no fear of the consequences when they carry out their attacks. This ability to possess arms and thrive in many areas is dangerous as they will continue to be a threat and source of instability.
It is crucial for the government to rein in these elements and establish its power as the sole authority. Otherwise the state of Libya will remain chaotic and uncertain. The demise of dictatorship should never allow for a lawless state to thrive.
