05-07-2025
UNSMIL calls for investigation into death of government critic
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has urged the authorities to launch a transparent and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of political activist Abdel Monim Al-Maryami, the nephew of Abu Agila Al-Maryami. News of his death has sparked widespread protests in the capital, Tripoli, and the city of Al-Zawiya.
UNSMIL expressed its 'shock and deep sorrow' over Al-Maryami's death, and called for the investigation to include 'his arbitrary detention and allegations of torture during custody.'
Al-Maryami was abducted by the Internal Security Agency in Sorman on June 30, and was referred to the Office of the Attorney General on July 3. His death was announced on Saturday, July 5, under unclear circumstances, according to UNSMIL.
The Mission condemned the threats, harassment, and arbitrary arrests targeting politically active Libyans, reiterating its call on all authorities to respect freedom of expression and end unlawful detentions.
Following the announcement of Al-Maryami's death, angry protests erupted in Tripoli, with protesters blocking major roads in Tajoura, Ain Zara, Sidi Al-Masri, Al-Dahmani, Al-Sarraj, and Ras Hassan. Protesters denounced what they described as Al-Maryami's 'arbitrary detention,' noting his known opposition to the government and leadership of anti-government demonstrations.
The government has yet to issue any official comments on the incident or its circumstances, while both local and international human rights organizations have called for a transparent and independent investigation.
In the early hours of Friday, the Attorney General's Office announced that Al-Maryami had sustained injuries following his interrogation after being held by the Internal Security Agency, requiring hospitalization.
In a statement, the Office said it received preliminary case files from the Internal Security Agency on Thursday regarding allegations against Al-Maryami. He was interrogated and subsequently granted release. 'While waiting for his family to arrive and escort him, he moved to leave and jumped across the gap to the ground floor, resulting in injuries that required hospital admission,' the statement read.
