The Libyan Government of National Unity has called for a transparent investigation into alleged human rights violations following the emergence of leaked footage purportedly depicting the torture of detainees in an eastern Libyan prison. The videos, widely shared by human rights activists and Libyan dissidents, appear to show prisoners, some of whom speak with non-Libyan accents, being subjected to severe beatings while nearly undressed. The footage is believed to have been taken inside Qarnada prison in the city of Shahat, although the date of recording remains unclear.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice, the Government of National Unity condemned the “ongoing practice of torture and enforced disappearances” exposed by the leaks, labeling them as crimes against humanity and violations of international human rights conventions. The Ministry called for those responsible to be held accountable.
The revelations have drawn comparisons to the infamous Saydnaya prison in Syria, sparking widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of detention facilities across Libya. While the focus is currently on Qarnada prison, concerns have resurfaced regarding conditions in other facilities, including Mitiga, Al-Hadba, and Sorman prisons.
Some political observers argue that the Ministry of Justice’s response may be driven by political motivations, pointing out that prison conditions in western Libya are equally dire. They note that despite the claims of the leaks being outdated, the issue remains a persistent concern for human rights organizations.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has previously issued arrest warrants for six Libyan individuals linked to grave crimes. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan stated that three of the suspects were senior members of the notorious Al-Kaniyat militia, which ruled the city of Tarhuna with an iron fist for years. The militia is accused of committing widespread atrocities, including murder, torture, sexual violence, and mass executions. Among those wanted is Abdel Rahim Al-Kani, who reportedly instilled fear among Tarhuna’s residents by parading bound donkeys through the streets.
Beyond human rights abuses, General Khalifa Haftar’s leadership in eastern Libya has come under scrutiny for his handling of the 2023 flood disaster caused by Hurricane Daniel. The British newspaper Sunday Times published an investigative report holding Haftar accountable for failing to prevent the catastrophe that claimed thousands of lives. The report highlighted Haftar’s rise from a military officer to a close confidant of Libya’s former leader, followed by his attempted coup and subsequent exile, before returning to present himself as Libya’s savior.
According to the Sunday Times, public anger is directed at Haftar and his sons, who wield significant control over eastern Libya. Critics argue that the collapse of two dilapidated dams in Derna, which led to devastating floods, was avoidable. Virginia Colombier, a researcher at LUISS Guido Carli University and editor of Violence and Social Transformation in Libya, stated that despite government claims attributing the disaster to natural causes, the public holds Haftar responsible. “Large budgets were allocated for repairs and maintenance, but nothing was done,” Colombier noted.
As Libya continues to grapple with the fallout of civil war and governance challenges, Haftar’s leadership remains a focal point of controversy, with critics questioning his ability to provide stability and accountability in the eastern region.
