Authorities in eastern Libya announced Sunday the execution of 10 people following their conviction on terrorism-related charges by military courts. The executions have drawn criticism from human rights groups, who question the fairness of the trials.
The office of the military prosecutor in eastern Libya stated that the 10 individuals were executed by firing squad after trials that spanned several years. This office operates under the purview of the Libyan National Army, commanded by General Khalifa Hifter, which controls significant portions of eastern and southern Libya.
The convicted individuals were found guilty of charges including membership in joint terrorist groups and the assassinations of military personnel and civilians, according to a statement from the prosecutor's office. The statement did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the charges or the exact timing and location of the executions, but asserted that all legal procedures were completed.
Local media reports indicate that the executions took place at the Qarnada military prison in the northeastern town of Shahat. Families of the executed were reportedly notified to collect the bodies from a hospital in Benghazi.
Rights groups have voiced strong objections to the executions. The National Institution for Human Rights in Libya highlighted concerns about the jurisdiction and fairness of military trials for civilians, questioning judicial independence. The group urged Libya's chief prosecutor and judicial authorities to investigate the executions and the trial processes.
These concerns are compounded by a Constitutional Court ruling stating that the trial of civilians in military courts for terrorism offenses and crimes against the state is unconstitutional. International human rights organizations have frequently criticized detention and execution practices in Libya, citing unfair trials. Amnesty International has noted that Libya continues to impose the death penalty for various offenses, with courts in both eastern and western Libya issuing death sentences following what the organization describes as grossly unfair trials.
Libya has experienced prolonged instability and division since the 2011 uprising that led to the overthrow and death of Moammar Gadhafi. The country has since been fragmented, with rival administrations in the east and west, each supported by different armed factions and international governments.