He has not been seen or heard from since his capture ten years ago in the Libyan desert, but the son of the late Libyan Colonel Muammar Gaddafi has emerged today, signaling his intention to run for the presidency of Libya. Despite still being wanted by the International Criminal Court on charges of war crimes, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi plans to run in the upcoming presidential elections, according to a report published by the British newspaper "The Times" on Friday. It was also clarified that he has been in contact with Western diplomats and others to garner support for his return to public life.
**An Upcoming Statement**
His aides indicated that after years of disappearance, a public statement will be issued soon. They added that "he plans to run in the elections scheduled for December 24, but it is too early to be certain or discuss the details before the election law is approved, as opponents may seek to introduce a clause to prevent him from running."
**Did Russia Support His Candidacy?**
Additionally, insiders revealed, according to the newspaper, that Russia has supported his candidacy, indicating that Gaddafi intends to turn the page on the past. However, numerous obstacles prevent this candidacy, including the fact that Gaddafi's son is still wanted by the International Criminal Court. Nonetheless, sources familiar with Saif al-Islam's thinking suggest that he might run regardless of the court's warrant, noting that the case could be shelved.
Moreover, they noted that the biggest challenge he faces comes from local opponents, including politicians trying to change the electoral system to allow parliament to choose the president. Saif al-Islam Gaddafi following his arrest in 2011.
His aides believe that Saif al-Islam is betting on the nostalgia Libyans have for the relative stability that existed during his father's rule, despite the revolution that occurred against him years ago.
**Nostalgia for the Past**
Conversely, some argue that Gaddafi has a good chance in the elections, regardless of nostalgia for the past. They add that he can rely on support from southern and central Libya, where his aides are particularly dependent on local rather than foreign support, according to "The Times."
It is worth noting that Saif al-Islam was captured by several revolutionaries and armed groups in 2011, then sentenced to death in 2015. He was released two years later but remained hidden in the city of Zintan. A security official stated that he faces a local arrest warrant in the country, in addition to the international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.
