The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern over the recent outbreak of violence in Tripoli, Libya’s capital, which claimed lives and caused significant damage to property.
In a statement released on May 17, 2025, Youssouf welcomed the return of cautious calm following a ceasefire agreement and called on all parties involved to avoid provocative actions or inflammatory statements that could escalate tensions further.
He emphasized the urgent need to demilitarize the capital, stressing that peace and stability can only return when civilian order is restored. He also reiterated the importance of upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful protest and freedom of expression, in line with international law.
“This is a critical moment for Libya,” he noted. “There must be national responsibility and inclusive dialogue to end the country’s prolonged transitional phase and build a peaceful, democratic future.”
The AU Chairperson reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering support for Libya and encouraged all stakeholders to fully commit to the National Reconciliation Charter, which was signed in Addis Ababa in February 2025 as a roadmap toward unity and sustainable development.
He concluded by urging Libyan leaders and citizens alike to prioritize the national interest, warning that lasting peace cannot be achieved through violence, but through dialogue, compromise, and mutual respect.
