Tensions rise in Misrata over arrest of 17 February Movement leader

Jan 16, 2025 | Libyan actors

On 16 January, Othman al-Taher Issa, a leader of the Misrata 17 February Movement, was arrested by the Misrata Joint Force, which is led by Omar Abu Ghadada.

On 16 January in the evening, several hundred protesters blocked the road in front of the People’s Hall on Tripoli Street, a main road in Misrata, with burning tires and demanded the immediate release of Othman al-Taher Issa and other activists.

Several of the Sheikhs and Notables of Misrata demanded the intervention of the Misrata Municipal Council, holding PM Abdul Hameed Dabaiba fully responsible for the security tensions in the city. According to them, Dabaiba supports the Joint Force, which is responsible for various crimes, including kidnapping, threats, assaults on individuals and extrajudicial killings to ensure he remains in power.

On 17 January in the morning, Issa was released by the Joint Force. After the release, calm returned to the city.

On 18 January, Presidential candidate Suleiman al-Bayoudi criticized PM Dabaiba, claiming that he is responsible for the deteriorating situation in Misrata as he has allowed armed groups to use violence to protect his stay in power. Al-Bayoudi called for a political pact in Misrata aimed at ending repressive practices and authoritarianism and establishing the principles and culture of dialogue and acceptance of others.

On 19 January, the Misrata 17 February Movement criticized the policy of PM Dabaiba and warned of the continued repression and kidnapping of citizens of Misrata by the Joint Force. They called on the judiciary to intervene and on the Municipal Council to address the violations.