Libyan protesters, frustrated with poor living conditions, surrounded the residence of head of the Government of National Accord (GNA) Fayez al-Sarraj in al-Noflin neighborhood in the capital Tripoli.
The rally prompted GNA loyalist militias to reinforce their presence in the area to protect Sarraj’s property.
The peaceful demonstrators chanted slogans against Syrian mercenaries, and demanded wages similar to those paid to mercenaries brought from abroad.
They gave the GNA 24 hours to resign, and hinted at plans for civil disobedience if it didn’t.
Sarraj met with military and security officials in the GNA to discuss the ongoing protests.
Pro-GNA militias, namely “Al-Nawasi” battalion, disbanded protesters gathered in front of Sarraj’s house and made a number of arrests.
Interior Ministry units and Al-Nawasi gunmen blocked protesters, who did not heed Sarraj’s speech vowing to improve living conditions, from reaching Tripoli’s Martyr Square.
Libya’s Bar Association has officially announced joining the protests.
Amid GNA Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha's presence in Turkey, Sarraj discussed with GNA intelligence, military and security officials the recent “riots” that took place in Tripoli and the need to establish security measures.
Later on, the Interior Ministry announced that necessary legal measures have been put in place regarding "any gathering that does not meet the legal conditions for protest, in accordance with the law governing the right to demonstrate peacefully."
In other news the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, said that it expects Turkey to launch an attack against its forces in the strategic city of Sirte if the demonstrations in Tripoli fall out of control.
LNA Spokesperson Ahmed Al-Mismari, in a televised speech, revealed that Turkish naval forces anchored off the gulf of Sirte have approached LNA units. He said that two frigates and three boats were involved.
