Despite the engagement of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in Zawiyya, there were several small-scale protests in Zawiyya this week against insecurity, corruption and worsening living conditions, condemning the Libyan elite.
On 10 March, a couple of dozen people burned tires at the Coastal Road in Zawiya, protesting against the ‘thuggery by officials and skyrocketing prices’. On 11 and 12 March, there were several smaller night-time gatherings, protesting against corruption and about the deteriorating living conditions for the population.
On 13 March, several hundred people protested in Zawiyya, gathering in Martyrs’ Square and across the city to denounce what they described as entrenched corruption involving senior political and military figures. Demonstrators accused PM Abdul Hameed Dabaiba, National Security Advisor Ibrahim Dabaiba, Minister of State Walid al‑Lafi (a close confident of Dabaiba), and Libyan National Army (LNA) Deputy Commander Saddam Haftar of ‘stealing public wealth’ and benefiting from corrupt networks and deals. They reiterated their rejection of Arkenu’s involvement in Libya’s oil sector and carried banners demanding investigations, accountability, and judicial action. Some also called for the departure of SRSG Hanna Tetteh, arguing she has failed to advance a credible political process.
Protesters framed their movement as part of a broader national demand for transparency, institutional reform, and an end to worsening living conditions. The demonstrations remained largely peaceful, with participants vowing to continue until concrete steps are taken to confront corruption and restore public trust. The Western Region Youth National Bloc called upon local national forces to convene for a protest at the United Nations Mission in Janzour. The demonstration aims to amplify the people’s demands and denounce the continued silence of both the UN and the international community, specifically citing their support for corrupt entities that have failed to resolve the ongoing instability.