Libya's central bank governor, Sadiq al-Kabir, revealed to the Financial Times that he and other senior bank staff had to leave the country to protect their lives from potential attacks by armed militia.
In a telephone interview, Kabir stated, "Militias are threatening and terrifying bank staff, sometimes even abducting their children and relatives to force them to work."
He also denounced interim Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah's attempts to replace him as illegal and in violation of U.N. negotiated accords on central bank control.
The crisis surrounding the Central Bank of Libya adds another layer of instability to the country, a significant oil producer divided between eastern and western factions supported by Turkey and Russia.
The U.N. Support Mission in Libya has called for the suspension of unilateral decisions, lifting of force majeure on oil fields, cessation of escalations and use of force, and protection of central bank employees.
Analysis:
The situation in Libya has escalated with the central bank governor and senior staff fleeing due to threats from militia groups. This instability can have far-reaching implications on the country's economy, particularly its oil production, which is vital for its revenue. Investors should monitor the situation closely as it may impact global oil prices and financial markets. Additionally, the safety of central bank employees is a concern, highlighting the humanitarian aspect of the crisis.