Reconstruction in Eastern Libya Empowers Haftar Amid Tragedy

A devastating flood in eastern Libya caused by extreme rainfall a year ago left nearly 4,000 dead, thousands missing, and over 40,000 displaced. The reconstruction efforts in the coastal city of Derna after the tragedy have become a means for military strongman Khalifa Haftar to consolidate power in the war-torn country.

The massive rebuilding in Derna lacks oversight from Tripoli authorities, as Haftar’s son Belgacem heads a reconstruction fund worth $2.1 billion. Analysts warn of a lack of accountability and the potential exploitation of the reconstruction for political gains by the Haftar family.

The tragedy shed light on Libya’s fragile infrastructure and political divisions stemming from the aftermath of the 2011 uprising. Authorities in the east have faced criticism for downplaying the death toll and failing to hold high-ranking officials accountable for poorly managed dams that led to the disaster.

As Derna transforms into a construction zone, questions remain about the transparency and motives behind the reconstruction efforts, highlighting the complexities and power dynamics in Libya’s turbulent political landscape.

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