Concerns Over Arbitrary Arrests and Use of Filmed Confessions in Libya
Introduction
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed concern over the increasing number of arbitrary arrests in the country, including those of lawyers and members of the judiciary. In a statement issued on Saturday, UNSMIL called for the immediate release of those detained and condemned the use of filmed confessions.
Arbitrary Arrests and Detentions
UNSMIL is alarmed by the wave of arbitrary arrest and detentions across Libya by law enforcement and security actors. These actors are using their powers of arrest and detention to target individuals for their alleged political affiliations, to silence perceived dissent, and to undermine judicial independence.
Use of Filmed Confessions
The UN mission also expressed concern about the use of filmed confessions, where individuals are detained and coerced into "confessing" to alleged crimes with videos published online. This practice is used to intimidate and humiliate the individuals, and must be deemed inadmissible.
Examples of Detained Individuals
Among those arrested was Judge Ali al-Sharif, who was subjected to violence during his arrest in Tripoli on March 10. Lawyer Mounir al-Orfi was also detained in Benghazi since March 12. Two military prosecutors, Mansour Daoub and Mohammed al-Mabrouk al-Kar, have been held in Tripoli since 2022.
Impact on Libya’s Democratic Transition
The situation undermines the environment necessary for Libya’s democratic transition, and weakens Libyans’ trust in law enforcement and security entities that must work to protect and promote the rights of all people in Libya, not undermine them.
Conclusion
The use of filmed confessions and arbitrary arrests is a concerning trend that undermines the rule of law and the democratic transition process in Libya. It is essential that the Libyan government and relevant authorities take immediate action to address these issues and ensure that the rights of all individuals are respected and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)?
A: UNSMIL is a peacekeeping and peacebuilding mission established by the United Nations to support the peaceful and democratic transition in Libya.
Q: What is the purpose of the UN mission in Libya?
A: The UN mission in Libya aims to support the government and people of Libya in their efforts to build a stable and democratic state, and to promote and protect human rights and the rule of law.
Q: What is the current situation in Libya?
A: Libya is currently divided between a UN-recognised government in Tripoli and a rival authority in the east backed by military strongman Khalifa Haftar. The country has been struggling to recover from the chaos that followed the 2011 Nato-backed uprising that overthrew longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi.