Libya: Demonstrations against poor living conditions continue in Tripoli on August 23 /update 2

Event

Demonstrations denouncing poor living conditions continued for a fourth consecutive day at several locations in Tripoli on Sunday, August 23. Local sources indicate that protesters gathered in the Hay Andalous and Tajura areas of Tripoli. The ongoing demonstration has reportedly been organized by a group called Himt al Shabab (The mettle of youths). Local sources report that this is a civil society group with no formal links to local militia. Although it has not been confirmed, it is likely that similar groups are gathering elsewhere in the capital with an intent to march to Martyrs Square.

Related protests on Saturday, August 22, took place in Zawiyah at Martyrs Square and in the Omar al Mokhtar area. Reports suggest that the demonstrations in Zawiyah have been larger and more organized than those in Tripoli. Security forces have intervened to disperse those involved; on Friday, August 21, at least one activist was injured after police dispersed those gathered using live fire.

Further protests are likely to continue in the coming days. A heightened security presence with associated localized disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of gatherings.

Advice

Those in Libya are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.