Chaos: Troubled Libya now faces dueling governments

The Libyan parliament that was replaced in an election in June reconvened on Monday and chose an Islamist-backed deputy as prime minister, leaving the chaotic country with two rival leaders and assemblies each backed by armed factions. The power grab highlights the lawlessness that has swept Libya since rebels overthrew dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and later formed powerful militias that successive governments have been unable to tame. It also leaves troubled Libya with two governments and two parliaments, deepening divisions and escalating the political struggle that’s torn the country apart.

It is impossible that you can impose anything on Libyans using force. It will be like a devil who wants to enter heaven.

Libyan Prime Minister Abdullah al-Thinni

Libya earlier appealed to the international community to help protect its oilfields, airports and other state assets as it is too weak to stop armed groups. Libya’s divisions are rooted in rivalries between Islamists and non-Islamists, as well as powerful tribal and regional allegiances between groups who quickly filled the power vacuum after Gadhafi’s fall. Successive transitional governments have failed to control them.

Middle East Libya