GNA militias locking horns with each other

Fatma Abdelghani

The militias affiliated to the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) are braving all types of difficulties on the fringes of the central city of Sirte, waiting for a decision to march toward the city.

However, the conditions surrounding the presence of the pro-GNA troops are becoming intolerable for these troops.

What is known as “Movement 36” complained against the tough conditions of the area where its troops are deployed.

The troops, the movement said, are defying the scorching heat of the sun and hunger in the desert.

This is the first time the pro-GNA militias complain, having waited for more than two months now for a decision to march toward Sirte and al-Jufra, two cities around which Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi drew redlines.

Movement 36 has its command center in Misrata. It is commanded by Salah Badi, the former commander of the Dawn of Libya operation. He is on a list of internationally-wanted persons. The United Nations Security Council imposed sanctions on him earlier.

There are reports, meanwhile, about differences between the Misrata-based militia and some officials in Tripoli.

The same reports refer to a desire within the Misrata camp for starting the war for Sirte and al-Jufra. It is in a hurry for marching toward the two cities.

There is anger in Tripoli also at the protracted war, while some of the families and the tribes of the Libyan capital accuse the GNA of putting their sons on the frontlines for the benefit of the warlords.

Conflicts between the GNA militias on the ground coincide with conflicts between the members of the GNA and the Presidential Council.

These conflicts have come up to the surface after GNA Deputy Prime Minister Ahmed Metig accused Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj of manipulating decision-making within the government and the Presidential Council.

GNA Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha is taking sides with Metig.