Libyan National Army Commander Khalifa Hifter stated today, Monday, that the army will not be subject to any authority except if it is elected by the people, who are the source of authority. He emphasized this point "no matter how skilled the schemers are in maneuvering, trickery, and deceit in the name of civility."
In a speech to the troops on the anniversary of the founding of the Libyan army, Hifter said: "Despite the sharp differences in stances towards the homeland in the past and present, which have led to escalations reaching armed confrontations, we extend our hands for just peace with courage and self-confidence for the higher interest of the country and for future generations."
He added: "Our hands will remain extended to anyone working towards reconciliation... healing wounds and closing the pages of the past with all its tragedies to build a new Libya where goodness and peace prevail, and where citizens live with dignity and honor."
Hifter also stated in his speech that the Libyan army "was the barrier against the projects of terrorist factions." He added, "If it were not for the army's belief in the path of peace, the military committee would not have been formed." He continued: "Despite the plots and conspiracies being devised against the army, your army will remain steadfast and resilient."
