Thousands of Libyans have taken to the streets to widely celebrate the end of the end of Colonel Gaddafi’s rule, also marking the end of the civil war, never questioning what tomorrow will bring for them and their children.
The graphic footage of Colonel Gaddafi’s demise was a blood-stained image which marked the end of the old regime. And while questions over his death continue to cause controversy, some fear the sanguine beginning of Libya without the colonel also hints at a bloody future.
Libya’s interim rulers rushed to call for a celebration of what they call the country’s final liberation, which was announced from Benghazi.
RT’s Anissa Naouai attended the so-called ‘Libyan liberation’ in Tripoli, where the main celebrations were held on Martyrs’ Square – which was until recently known as Green Square.
People came to the square with their families and flags. Some were still shooting into the air to mark the celebration, others responded with fireworks. As strange as it might seem, there was a family atmosphere at the site as the celebrations took place.
RT’s correspondent asked some of them what they see happening beyond Gaddafi, what they expect from the interim government or simply what will happen after that. They all answered “freedom”, but could not say much more. They are just happy that Gaddafi is gone and do not look beyond the celebrations.
Before the war, Libya boasted probably the highest living standards on the African continent – in terms of high life-expectancy, low infant mortality rate, European-style healthcare system, and very good social benefits. Those familiar with the Libyan socially-oriented state structure that used-to-be realize that the mere rebuilding of infrastructure and recovery of that system would be an immense task. And those who are now busy celebrating simply do not realize that, likely expecting life to be back on track after Muammar Gaddafi is buried.
Having a chance to walk around the outskirts of Tripoli, RT’s Anissa Naouai witnessed them in shambles, traces of military distraction are everywhere, with many buildings half collapsed or missing walls and roofs – the work to be done looks immense just in terms of reconstruction.
It has been reported that 60 per cent of the country does not have running water, problems with electricity and fuel supply are an everyday reality and the NTC promises to solve the problems in the nearest future.
There are conflicting reports on the new government to be formed. Some NTC members insist on Libya moving to adopt Sharia Law, something analysts were speaking about months before Gaddafi was killed. If that happens, Libya will be moving towards a hardline fundamental Islam direction – something its citizens have forgotten about over the 42 years of Gaddafi rule.