The demonstrators and activists of the various ‘‘Movements’’ that have barricaded roads with rubble and burning tyres as well as welded shut gates to state and government buildings over the last two weeks, announced yesterday the ending of their actions.
The demonstrations ostensibly started their protest objecting to lengthening power cuts and blackouts – but morphed their demonstrations into calls for the downfall of the government and ruling state institutions.
However, despite their call for a huge gathering in the centre of Tripoli’s historic Martyr Square for a popular uprising over the weekend – this failed to materialise. No huge numbers turned up, and the movement failed to snowball into a political movement against the political establishment.
It is still unclear as to what are the real reasons that caused the demonstrators to suddenly call off their actions.
Explaining the rationale for ending their actions, however, the ‘‘Soug Al-Juma Movement’’ said:
‘‘To our people in Tripoli and across all Libyan cities: We affirm that our actions over the past few days stemmed from our conviction that the voice of the people must be heard and that the suffering of citizens must not be neglected or ignored.
From the very beginning, we emphasized that our stance was rooted in the will and demands of the people. It was never directed against citizens or their interests; rather, its goal was to convey a clear message: the people deserve a dignified life, better services, and a state that respects its citizens.
We also affirm that the electricity crisis the country has endured recently was among the issues requiring urgent action. This matter has been addressed—a key demand voiced by the citizens.
Following numerous requests from citizens and recognizing the extent of the suffering caused by the continued closure of (state and government) institutions, we have decided to reopen the facilities that were closed over the past two days. We do this in response to the people's wishes and in the interest of the public good.
We took to the streets for the sake of the people, and we remain with the people; never will we be the cause of increased suffering or the disruption of their interests. Guided by reason and wisdom and committed to maintaining security and stability while avoiding further tension, we have decided to reopen these institutions in deference to the wishes of our noble people.
We assure everyone that this step does not represent a retreat from legitimate demands. Instead, it is a position born of our sense of responsibility, our awareness of the difficult circumstances the country is facing, and our determination to ensure that ordinary citizens do not pay the price for ongoing crises.
We also affirm that the strength of any movement is measured by the extent of its commitment to the people's interests, and that the people of Tripoli have been—and will remain—part of this nation; they heed its voice, champion its demands, and stand by its side under all circumstances.
We have made this decision out of respect for the citizens' will and to reaffirm that the people's interest has always been, and will continue to be, paramount’’.
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