Tripoli: Presidential Council members Abdullah Al-Lafi and Musa Al-Koni have firmly rejected any attempts to exploit the judiciary beyond its constitutional framework or involve the Presidential Council, a key governing body of the state, in political disputes or personal conflicts.
According to Libyan News Agency, the two members, in a joint statement issued today, emphasized that the independence of the judiciary is essential for protecting rights and maintaining legitimacy within the Libyan state. They asserted that judicial rulings must be respected and are binding, deriving their authority from the judiciary itself. The statement stressed that the judiciary should not be misused as a tool for political disputes or settling scores between parties. It is vital for everyone to respect the judiciary’s role as an arbiter and adhere to the separation of powers.
Al-Koni and Al-Lafi highlighted that any attempts to use the judiciary outside its constitutional framework or influence its decisions poses a significant threat to its independence. Such actions could potentially undermine the legitimacy of the state. They unequivocally rejected involving the Presidential Council in political rivalries or personal disputes.
The joint statement by the deputies clarified that the Presidential Council serves as a unifying institution and a guarantor of the state’s unity. It should remain neutral and not be drawn into polarization or used in alignments that could compromise its constitutional standing.
Lastly, Al-Lafi and Al-Koni reiterated their commitment to the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and the principle of separation of powers. They stressed the importance of all institutions adhering to their respective jurisdictions to safeguard the state and protect its institutions from deviating from legal principles and justice objectives.
Earlier on Monday, Presidential Council Chairman Mohammed Al-Menfi welcomed a ruling by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court. The court declared Law No. (10) of 2022 concerning the Official Gazette unconstitutional, pointing out the constitutional flaws in the conflicting laws since their enactment.