Libya’s first elected government was sworn in under tight security on Wednesday, inheriting the daunting task of establishing democracy in a country plagued by rival militias who helped overthrow Muammar Gaddafi last year, Reuters reports.
In a national congress hall built by Gaddafi shortly before his fall, new cabinet ministers swore an oath to protect the North African state, a major oil producer.
“I swear to God that I will fulfill my duties with all dedication to be loyal to the goals of the 17th of February Revolution, and to respect the constitution and its rules and its articles and to completely care for the needs of Libyans and to protect the Libya and the unity of its lands,” each minister intoned from a podium.
Ministers in charge of electricity, higher education, relations with congress and interior were rejected by the North African state’s integrity commission because of questionable backgrounds, including alleged ties with the Gaddafi regime.
Rulings on four other cabinet nominees – foreign affairs, agriculture, social affairs, and religious affairs – were pending.
“The country cannot suffer delays any more so we needed to swear in this government and hand it power,” said congress member Mohamed al-Hudeiri. “Pending a decision by the commission, these portfolios will be handled by the deputy ministers until we find replacements for them.”
Libya’s national assembly approved Zeidan’s proposed government on October 31 after rejecting his predecessor’s line-up.
But the list of members sparked violent protests outside the congress, forcing it to adjourn early.
Former rebel militias gathered with weapons outside the building, shooting in the air and at one point tried to storm into the congress’ building, demanding the removal of those members they accused of being old Gaddafi loyalists.
LIBYA ELECTS AND SWEARS IN NEW GOVERNMENT
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