Link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12520366
What started off as a simple rally demanding the release of a human rights activist, have escalated to a full blown anti-government movement. The protest quickly turned violent when several individuals were harmed/killed when security forces tried to disperse the crowds. There are reports of security forces firing rubber bullets, tear gas, and live ammunition at protesters. "Human Rights Watch says at least 173 people have been killed in Libya since demonstrations began on Wednesday".
Protests have finally reached Tripoli the capital city of Libya. The protesters are demanding the resignation of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, who has ruled Libya since 1969.
News Update: There have been incoming reports the Benghazi, Libya's second largest city is now under control of the protesters and their military allies. Eyewitnesses have reported that some of the military has dropped their allegiance with Colonel Muammar Gaddafi and joined the protesters. It is difficult to confirm the incoming reports because the government has implemented strict restrictions on Libya's media.
Unlike the protests in Egypt, the protest in Libya have been filled with far greater bloodshed. Now with reports of some soldiers switching allegiances the violence might escalate even more.
If the reports of soldiers switching alliances is correct, what do you think Gaddafi's reaction will be?
-Alexander Guevara
Discussion: Friday 1:00-2:00 pm
Going by the speech delivered be Gaddafi's son, Gaddafi is determined to stay in power. He said they will fight to the last man and bullet. So far the bloodshed or the calls for his resignation have not had any effect. He assumes that this issue is temporary, and insists that everything will go back to normal. Since the protests have spread to Tripoli, I believe that Gaddafi can no longer ignore the determination of the people who want to see him out of power. The Thunderbolt squad (military unit who joined the people) claim they have overpowered Gaddafi's security forces. If this is true then Gaddafi doesn't have much time left. Just like in Egypt the army is key. Gaddafi's son acknowledges this when he says,"The army now will have a fundamental role in imposing security and bringing normality into the country." If the army is deserting the colonel, this may mean the people truly have the potential to run him out. We now know that this is possible. Only time will tell what will happen in this country.
ReplyDeleteReema Darwish
Armel Fri. 1-1:50
I still don't understand why Gaddafi wants to rule a country for that long, especially if the people are not happy with the way he's been leading the country. After 42 years, he has to give the country a chance to grow. But again,the future of Libya depends on the army's choice to side with the colonel (Gaddafi) or the people.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Reema. Considering the importance of the military in upholding Qaddafi's regime, it is significant that an entire squad defected and, moreover, subsequently joined the people. History has demonstrated the dangerous implications of groupthink in permitting such atrocities to occur. These initial protests to violence, emerging from both the political and military realms, will thus provide an important precedent for others to follow.
ReplyDeleteLiana Bran
Armel Friday 1pm
I also agree with Reema and Liana. But recently it does not seem the military is cooperating with the protesters. A new BBC article states, "Witnesses reported deaths and injuries as militiamen and government troops confronted protesters as they emerged from mosques following Friday prayers."
ReplyDeleteWhat amazes me about all of these fascinating revolutions is the leaders strangely believe they know what is best for the state. Particularly in Ghadafi's case, he is willing to destroy anyone that seems to be somewhat of a threat.
Even if the reports are true about the army switching alliances, Ghadafi "would never flee and would fight to the end."
Sana Jaber
Friday:1-1:50pm
Armel