Libya’s internationally recognised government has ordered the military to regain control of the strategically important Mellitah gas complex after protesters disrupted operations, raising fears of a nationwide electricity crisis.
The move comes after demonstrators forced their way into the gas facility, temporarily halting operations in protest against persistent power outages and the rising cost of living.
According to the Government of National Unity (GNU), Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbeibah instructed the Ministry of Defence and the armed forces to secure the Mellitah gas complex, reopen gas pipelines and restore supplies to electricity generation plants.
Officials warned that the disruption could have serious consequences for the country’s already fragile power network.
The General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL) said protesters shut off gas valves supplying several power stations, increasing the risk of widespread electricity failures and a possible collapse of the national grid.
The occupation of the gas facility follows days of demonstrations in and around Tripoli, where residents have voiced frustration over prolonged power outages and worsening economic conditions.
During overnight protests, groups of demonstrators gathered outside the headquarters of oil and gas companies, calling for political change and demanding improved public services.
Officials at the Mellitah complex said negotiations were underway to convince protesters to leave the site and allow operations to resume safely.
Libya continues to face political instability more than a decade after the 2011 uprising that led to the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi.
The country remains split between the UN-recognised Government of National Unity based in Tripoli and a rival administration in eastern Libya backed by military commander Khalifa Haftar.
The ongoing political division has complicated efforts to improve public services, including electricity supply, despite Libya possessing the largest proven oil reserves in Africa.
The Mellitah gas complex plays a critical role in supplying natural gas to several of Libya’s power stations, making it a vital part of the country’s electricity infrastructure.
Any prolonged disruption to operations could worsen existing power shortages and place additional strain on households and businesses already affected by frequent blackouts.
Main Image: The Libya Update
