Hundreds Protest in Derna Demanding Accountability and Relief Following Deadly Floods

In a display of public discontent and anger, hundreds of residents in the eastern Libyan city of Derna took to the streets to voice their anger and frustration over the devastating floods that struck their city, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming thousands of lives. The protesters, unified in their demand for justice and swift action, castigated local authorities and their alleged negligence in handling the crisis.

The ire of the demonstrators on Monday was particularly directed towards Aguila Saleh, the leader of eastern Libya’s parliament, and local officials whom they held responsible for the catastrophic floods, a tragedy that has reportedly claimed nearly 4,000 lives, according to updated figures from the United Nations.
In a joint statement released during the protest, demonstrators called for immediate and thorough investigations into the disaster, coupled with legal action against those deemed accountable.
Furthermore, the protesters insisted on compensation for the victims’ families, a comprehensive inquiry into the city’s finances, and the urgent reconstruction of Derna, which has been left in ruins.
Eastern Libya operates under a parallel government, distinct from the United Nations-recognized administration based in Libya’s capital, Tripoli, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
Critics, including experts and humanitarian organizations, have raised questions about whether the devastating floods could have been prevented or mitigated through timely evacuation measures or effective communication of the impending threat posed by Storm Daniel. Furthermore, neglect of the city’s dams by local authorities has been cited as a contributing factor, ultimately leading to their breach and the subsequent deluge.
The crowd set fire to the residence of Derna’s mayor, Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi. In response, al-Ghaithi, along with other municipal officials in Derna, has been suspended by Eastern Libya’s Prime Minister, Osama Hammad.
The demonstration underscores the gravity of the situation in Derna, with residents demanding accountability for the tragedy and urgent measures to rebuild their shattered city.