This week, the Libyan judiciary issued a death sentence for the famous TikToker known as "Azo Al-Zeegra" for premeditated murder, a decision that has sparked widespread controversy. Some sympathize with the accused, believing the crime does not warrant the death penalty, while others see the punishment as appropriate.
The crime occurred about two years ago during an armed altercation, where TikToker "Azo Al-Zeegra" admitted to killing the victim after the latter insulted his mother multiple times during a live broadcast on social media. He was captured while attempting to flee the country illegally and was imprisoned.
Months later, those close to him announced that he had been sentenced to death for premeditated murder. This event garnered significant interaction on social media, with supporters and opponents of the ruling voicing their opinions. Friends of the TikToker launched a campaign urging the victim's family to pardon him.
Activist Abdo questioned the basis of the death sentence, asking, "On what grounds was the death sentence laid? Was it proven that the murder was premeditated? The crime occurred because there was a dispute between two individuals and it was a case of self-defense."
Additionally, activist Mustafa Al-Fitouri called for a review of the sentence, arguing that it would deny a young man his right to life, especially since he has apologized and expressed remorse. He wrote, "It seems that Libyan law is only enforced on the weak and simple; there are those who have committed crimes and carried out massacres, bringing in foreign fighters to occupy the country, yet they are free and enjoy wealth, power, and authority."
Meanwhile, TikToker "LaaS Al-Asima" urged the "Yafran" tribe, to which the killer belongs, to intervene with the victim's family for mercy, stating, "While he made a mistake and justice has taken its course, it should not lead to a death sentence."
Conversely, activist Ali Ishtawi expressed surprise at some Libyans justifying the crime and advocating for leniency, writing, "Regardless of the chaos in the country and that half of the criminals are outside prisons, this should not be a justification to sympathize with someone who cold-bloodedly and deliberately killed another person."
Blogger "Amy" asserted that reducing the killer's punishment or releasing him would be a "grave mistake that will encourage people to commit crimes and murder with ease," adding that "the TikToker made a mistake and killed another person, and he should face his punishment to serve as a lesson to others."
