Protests are once again surging in Libya, where the opposition has declared a “day of rage” against Moammar Gadhafi, the long-serving military dictator of the nation. Protesters are said to have stormed one of the nation’s prisons and freed a number of political prisoners.
But as is all too common in these growing protests across the region, the military has been using live ammunition in an attempt to crush the rising dissent. The death toll, according to human rights groups, is at least 24, and is likely to rise in the days and weeks ahead.
Gadhafi has been amongst Africa’s most colorful dictators, and has had a less amenable relationship with the US historically than most of the region’s other dictators. This is owing largely to his decision to nationalize the Libyan oil holdings of American investors when he seized control of the nation.
In recent years, however, Gadhafi has had a rapprochement with the US, with President Bush ending sanctions in 2004 and upgrading relations in 2006. He still has yet to repair his standing with human rights groups, however, and this weeks killings are likely to make this matter all the worse.
Well, Jason. let me try again. Even though I do go along with most of your usually well-researched journalism, your insights and leanings – I must admit I have a problem with your take on Libya and Gaddafi.
A man that enjoys pretty much the overwhelming support of his people, aside from some pockets of resistance, especially in the Benghazi area, can hardly be called a dictator, at least in my book. In my opinion, and I have been following the situation in Libya for decades very carefully, what’s going on there can hardly be compared to Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, etc. Take my word for it – Libya is stable overall. Don’t expect an overthrow of Gaddafi anytime soon.
Much like Castro, Gaddafi is very much a beloved elder statesman in his country, especially for having freed them from western style oppression and exploitation. If anything, the situation is comparable to Iran, where there really isn't a china man’s chance of toppling the government in the near future, because it enjoys popular support. Dissent there is largely confined to Tehran, it has virtually no presence in the rest of the country.
Of course the war party and the mainstream media, led on by their puppet-masters, would like to seize the moment to divide and conquer in these countries, which are highly critival of US policies, through misinformation and spin, but don't you be caught in joining their chorus and adopting their vernacular.
US: libya use violence on the Gafi, Bahrain no, no violent revolt is bad and be careful of our boats.