EU Demands Investigation into Death of Libyan Activist

Activist Siraj Dughman (Social media)
Activist Siraj Dughman (Social media)
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EU Demands Investigation into Death of Libyan Activist

Activist Siraj Dughman (Social media)
Activist Siraj Dughman (Social media)

The delegation of the European Union (EU) and the diplomatic missions of the EU Member States in Libya expressed in a joint statement on Monday their grave concern after activist Siraj Dughman was reported dead in a Benghazi prison.

"We are gravely concerned about the circumstances of his death and strongly urge a comprehensive, transparent, and independent investigation of the incident." The statement reads.

The statement noted that Dughman’s arrest, similar to those of numerous other civil society representatives and activists, citizens and foreigners, was not followed by any subsequent formal charges or court proceedings.

"The arbitrary arrests or detentions are starkly at odds with Libya’s own legal framework. We call for the immediate release of all individuals arbitrarily detained and reassert the importance of adherence to due process and the rule of law across Libya. We stand with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in calling for the cessation of abductions, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary arrests or detentions throughout the country."

It also indicated that the EU and its Member States remained committed to supporting Libya on its journey toward stability and national reconciliation, emphasizing the necessity of legal and procedural reforms to prevent further injustices and pave the way toward a Libya in which all people can enjoy their rights.

Political activist Dughman was arrested more than six months ago along with former member of the Transitional Council Fathi Al-Baja, and the political activist Tariq Al-Bashari, without referring them to prosecution or charging them with any crimes, before the authorities in Benghazi announced his death in his prison cell in mid-April. The Internal Security Agency in Benghazi said that Dughman had died while trying to escape from the bathroom in his prison. However, activists said the incident seemed like a killing, adding that the circumstances of his death were unnatural.



Egypt, Türkiye Agree to Establish Joint University in Cairo

The Egyptian-Turkish delegations meet at the Egyptian education ministry in Cairo: Photo: President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council account on X
The Egyptian-Turkish delegations meet at the Egyptian education ministry in Cairo: Photo: President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council account on X
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Egypt, Türkiye Agree to Establish Joint University in Cairo

The Egyptian-Turkish delegations meet at the Egyptian education ministry in Cairo: Photo: President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council account on X
The Egyptian-Turkish delegations meet at the Egyptian education ministry in Cairo: Photo: President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council account on X

Egypt and Türkiye have agreed to collaborate on the establishment of a joint university in Cairo in implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed during Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s visit to Ankara on September 4.

President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council (YOK) Erol Ozvar said Thursday that the two countries are keen to consolidate collaboration in different areas, including education.

During a visit to Cairo, Ozvar described the agreement to establish the university as “one of the most crucial steps taken by both states in recent years.” He indicated that a mutual council will be formed to oversee the process, with the names of the council members to be announced in due course.

Ozvar revealed that he held discussions with the Egyptian education minister, Mohamed Ayman Ashour, to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Ozvar also noted that they discussed the possibility of holding an annual forum between Turkish and Egyptian universities. “By bringing together universities from both countries in both Türkiye and Egypt, these gatherings would provide a platform for rectors and faculty members to share ideas, experiences, and best practices,” he said.