Benghazi declares three-day general strike

By Libya Herald Staff.

Benghazi and Tripoli, 25 November 2013:

A three-day general strike has been called in Benghazi following this morning’s clashes between members of Benghazi Special Forces and Ansar Al-Sharia that left nine dead and at least 23 wounded.

As the fighting subsided this afternoon, Takbirs (“Allahua Akbar”) could be heard being broadcast from mosques throughout the city to a backdrop of low-flying Air Force jets.

This evening, crowds started gathering outside Benghazi’s Tibesti Hotel to protest against today’s violence, as well the assassinations which have destabilised security in the city for much of this year. Demonstrators declared a complete general strike from today, saying this would continue: “Until Benghazi has been cleansed of Ansar Al-Sharia and all other unofficial armed groups.”

Protestors declared their support for Benghazi Special Forces in the fight against Ansar Al-Sharia but rejected the local council, denouncing it as deceitful and saying its authority was no longer recognised.

The council has apparently since announced three days of mourning during which there would be a general strike. This, it said, would include educational institutions, banks, shops and businesses, although hospitals and food shops would remain open.

Further demonstrations have been reported in other areas of Benghazi.