The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has urged for calm, the application of the rule of law and the preservation of the rights of all citizens to peacefully express their views.
UNSMIL said in a statement on Saturday that Libya was witnessing a dramatic turn of events that underlines the urgent need to return to a full and inclusive political process that will meet the aspirations of the Libyan people for representative government, dignity, and peace.
UNSMIL also indicated that it had been registering an increase in reports of human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests and detention, restrictions placed on freedom of movement and expression, as well as on the right of peaceful assembly and protest.
UNSMIL said it remained concerned about the excessive use of force against demonstrators as well as the arbitrary arrest of a number of civilians in Tripoli.
It also explained that it was concerned about reports of on-going human rights violations and abuses in Sirte, including the killing of one civilian, the arbitrary arrest of several others, and the illegal forced entry into private properties.
“The prolific use of hate speech and incitement to violence appears designed to further divide Libyans, increase polarization and tear at the country’s social fabric at the expense of a Libyan-Libyan solution.” UNSMIL added.
