After 5 year halt, Libyan House of Representative held its first meeting

CAIRO – 15 April 2019:The Libyan House of Representatives held Sunday its first meeting under the chairmanship of Aqila Saleh after a truce between Libyan National Army led by Khalifa Haftar and the current government led by Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj was announced.

“On this historic day, the House of Representatives holds its first meeting in Benghazi. Libyans reject all negotiations that might threaten stability,” Saleh stated in his opening speech.

“Thanks to the Libyan army and Libya's noble people who exerted their utmost efforts to end the conflict, Libya is not limited to a certain party or group, but includes all segments of society,” Saleh stressed.

“We appreciate all the great sacrifices of our armed forces and young people.We feel sorry for all martyrs and the wounded and thank the friendly and brotherly countries that gave us a hand in our war against terrorism,”Saleh continued.

Saleh asserted in his speech that all Libyans combat terrorism to form a comprehensive unified national group, adding that the reform process does not aim to restrict freedom but aims to restore stability and fight terrorism.

He further elaborated that the National army is the defender of democracy, noting that the supreme interest of the nation, overcoming past conflicts and turning a new page to rebuild Libya must be prioritized.

“The House of Representatives issued amnesty laws for extremists and political prisoners to unify Libya once again,” Saleh revealed.

The House of Representatives was resolved to form a Presidential Council consisting of a President and two deputies but the Council of State did not approve, according to Saleh.

"I am sure that the House of Representatives has done what is necessary,"he affirmed.
Saleh stated that without coexistence and acceptance, Libyans will not be able to overcome the current dilemma.He highlighted the vital role played by media, urging press to call for unity and democracy.

Saleh concluded his speech by thanking all Libyans for their wisdom and patience in dealing with the crisis, assuring that holding fair elections is the only way to democracy.