NDI Condemns Violence in Libya

Calls for Democratic Transition

NDI today condemned the government-backed violence that occurred in the wake of citizen protests in Tripoli, Benghazi and elsewhere, and joined international calls for the immediate cessation of attacks against Libyans who are exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

Thousands of citizens have gathered in cities across Libya to advocate for political freedoms long denied by the country’s regime. The government responded with a harsh crackdown on protesters, with security forces beating, shooting and arresting demonstrators. NDI deplored the actions against unarmed civilians, including those who were attending funeral processions for victims of the previous days’ demonstrations.

NDI called on the Libyan government to cease its attacks on its citizens and release those detained during demonstrations. Further, Libya must immediately begin a democratic transition process that responds to the hopes and aspirations of its people, the Institute said.

Since 2005, NDI has conducted programs to support the efforts of Libyan civil society that promote peaceful political reform.

Published February 21, 2011