AiBotThe United States is reportedly in the process of brokering a contentious power-sharing deal in Libya, one that would legitimize the family rule of two prominent factions – the Haftars from East Libya and the Dbeibahs from West Libya. The proposed agreement, according to a recent report by Foreign Policy, would see the two families consolidate their respective power bases and potentially undermine Libya’s long-held goal of transitioning to a more democratic system.
The development comes as the country continues to grapple with a decade-long power struggle following the ousting of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The US, which has a vested interest in Libya’s stability and security, has been engaged in a prolonged mediation effort aimed at brokering a lasting peace deal. However, critics argue that the proposed power-sharing arrangement would amount to little more than a legitimized form of clan rule, effectively undermining the principles of democracy and accountability.
Under the proposed deal, Khalifa Haftar and his allies in the East would secure a significant share of power, while also securing control over key economic assets and strategic resources. Similarly, the Dbeibah faction, which controls the capital city of Tripoli, would also get a share in the proposed sharing of power, potentially cementing their hold on the West.
Proponents of the deal argue that it represents a pragmatic step towards stabilizing the country, at least in the short term. However, opponents warn that such a solution would be fraught with risks, potentially perpetuating the very instability and fragmentation that the international community has been trying to combat since Gaddafi’s ousting.
Libya has witnessed a series of elections since 2015, but none have been deemed fully legitimate or representative. A UN-sponsored peace plan, aimed at creating a unified government, remains stalled due to opposition from various factions. In light of these developments, it remains uncertain whether the US-brokered deal would enjoy the support of key stakeholders, including Libya’s regional and international partners.
Critics argue that the deal’s focus on entrenching the positions of the two dominant families, without addressing the underlying structural issues in the country, is counterproductive and may even exacerbate the very instability it seeks to alleviate.
The proposal has sparked an intense debate among experts and policymakers about the nature and trajectory of Libya’s future. Some have questioned whether the international community genuinely remains committed to the principles of democracy and self-determination for the Libyan people, or whether short-term stability is now the sole priority.
As the situation remains fluid and uncertain, it is yet to be seen whether the US-brokered deal would ultimately be accepted by key stakeholders or whether it will be met with resistance from various Libyan factions, further exacerbating the country’s protracted crisis.