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On the occasion of the AU’s 18 anniversary, the Chairperson of the Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat has bemoaned ongoings in Libya . Even though the AU formed in 2002 is 18 years today, its mother body, the Organization of African Unity is 57 years.
The AU chief stressed the need to do all it takes to resolve the Libyan crisis. Describing Libya as the principal initiator and proponent of the AU, he said the current crisis was the fault of all interested parties. Some of whom have continued to stoke the security and political crisis riddling the country.
“The tragedy being played out in Libya is of profound concern to us all. No-one is blameless in the failure. Neither is any segment of the international community, which has a great responsibility in the persistence or even escalation of the conflict,” Moussa said.
The AU has also in the past few months taken steps to be more involved in helping solve the Libyan crisis. A high-level committee on Libya headed by Congolese president Sassou-Nguesso met in Congo and agreed on a Libya-led reconciliation process.
Meanwhile, the security crisis continues in the country. However, the United Nations-backed government have recorded recent successes against the eastern-based government led by rebel Khalifa Haftar. According to a recent report, the US and Turkish presidents had called for a de-escalation of the crisis.
Related: Haftar Dismisses UN-Libya Unity Deal
Turkey has men on the ground in support of the Tripoli-based UN-backed government. While the US and other gulf giants are believed to be supporting the Benghazi-based forces.
AU president Ramaphosa speaks on COVID-19
Over in South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa who is the current AU president touched on the AU @18 celebrations. His speech however slanted heavily towards the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We mark Africa Day this year just over three months since the first case of coronavirus on the continent was confirmed. This pandemic has also been a stark reminder that we are all mortal, and can succumb to the disease.
“As countries around the world battle to turn the tide against the pandemic, Africa has taken control of its destiny. This is through developing a clear strategy and raising financial resources from its member states”.
He had earlier on Sunday announced easing a lockdown that had all but shut the economy since late March. Effective June 1, the economy is to be reopened as the country continues to battle the virus.
