UNSMIL head and Special Representative to the UN Secretary General, Abdoulaye Bathily, called yesterday on political institutions in the west and east of Libya to coordinate and unify in facing the repercussions of Storm Daniel that caused a catastrophe in Derna and eastern Libya in general.
He said ‘‘Today, I met with members of the Political Affairs Commission of the High Council of State. I listened to their assessment of the social, humanitarian, economic and political dimensions of the Derna disaster.
I expressed my regret that coordination between national institutions in the East and West was not at the level of solidarity shown by Libyans from all regions towards their brothers & sisters in Derna and other cities of eastern Libya that were devastated by the floods.
I stressed the need for authorities in the East and West to conduct a joint assessment of the humanitarian response & reconstruction needs. It is imperative that political leaders live up to the moment and work together to overcome the tragedy”.
Analysis
Many political analysts had noted how the disaster had brought together Libyans from across the country in solidarity with their fellow citizens in the devastated east. They speculate whether the polarised politicians would do likewise, or whether politics as usual will kick-in shortly.
It is hoped that such a fatal disaster would jolt politicians on both sides into seeing the bigger picture of strengthening and unifying Libya beyond their narrow self-serving interests.
