Delegation: Libya Govt Ready to Discuss ‘Road Map’ to Reform

Former PM Says Regime 'Willing to Discuss' Elections

A delegation of officials with ties to the Gadhafi regime in Libya say that the government is ready to hold talks with the opposition rebels, and accept a number of political reforms.

Abdul Ati al-Obeidi, the regime’s former prime minister and head of state, was among the members of the delegation, and said that the government was willing to negotiate with anyone, and that they were “willing to discuss” the possibility of a free election.

The comments came shortly after the African Union issued a statement calling for a “transition period” in Libya, leading to eventual democratic elections. The African Union has been opposing the Western war in Libya, and urging a rapprochement.

Though the notion of such a deal seemed impossible just a few weeks ago, in the wake of massive US air strikes there appears to be a renewed interest in ending the conflict. Whether the government is sincere in making a deal or not remains to be seen, but any such deal appears like it would have to happen behind the Obama Administration’s back, as they are demanding regime change.

Author: Jason Ditz

Jason Ditz is Senior Editor for Antiwar.com. He has 20 years of experience in foreign policy research and his work has appeared in The American Conservative, Responsible Statecraft, Forbes, Toronto Star, Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Providence Journal, Washington Times, and the Detroit Free Press.