A new image of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi has engaged many of his supporters over the past hours on social media in Libya. This recent appearance has brought Gaddafi's son back into the spotlight, especially amid increasing calls to involve him in the ongoing political process in the country and not to exclude him. In the photo, Gaddafi is seen alongside the son of Commander of the "Abu Bakr al-Siddiq" Brigade, Ajami al-Ateeri, who is responsible for his protection, standing and raising a victory sign in a mountainous area, which activists claim is located in the city of Zintan. He appeared wearing a t-shirt and a sports cap, along with his usual beard, which is now speckled with gray, and his old glasses. His right fingers were noticeably mutilated, and he seemed to have gained weight compared to his previous appearance, although the date the photo was taken has not yet been confirmed.
Many Libyans have reacted to this image, with some arguing that Saif al-Islam cannot offer anything to the country because he still lives in the past and refuses to evolve, while others believe that the interest of Libyans in any new appearance of Gaddafi's son is indicative of the popularity he enjoys within Libya, qualifying him to win in elections.
This marks the latest emergence of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, who has recently begun to move freely between regions supportive of his father's regime and those backing his return to power. This is especially true after military and security forces in Zintan announced their allegiance to him and their support for his candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections, alongside the popular support he has, particularly among tribes seeking the return of the Jamahiriya regime.
He is considered a representative of supporters of the former regime and is among the most divisive and controversial candidates in the presidential race, amid intensifying debate over the conditions for candidacy in the elections. Some are calling for his exclusion due to his being wanted by the International Criminal Court on charges of "committing war crimes" and because of his conviction in a final ruling, while others advocate for allowing him to run and leaving the choice to the Libyan people.
