Libya is in mourning following the demise of a prominent political figure, Abdel Ati bin Ibrahim Al-Obeidi, the former Prime Minister and diplomat, who passed away at the age of 84 on Saturday, as officially confirmed by his family.
According to international media, Abdel Ati Al-Obeidi's illustrious career spanned several decades, imprinting a lasting legacy on Libya's political landscape. His journey was interwoven with the complex tapestry of Libya's history, as he held various significant roles within the Libyan government, notably during Muammar Gaddafi's leadership.
Serving as Prime Minister from 1977 to 1979 and later as the General Secretary of the General People’s Congress from 1979 to 1981, Al-Obeidi made one of his most remarkable contributions as a primary negotiator during Libya’s historic decision to renounce and dismantle its nuclear weapons program, solidifying his commitment to global peace.
Al-Obeidi's diplomatic acumen came to the fore during the 2011 Libya conflict, where he assumed the role of Foreign Minister following the defection of Moussa Koussa. A mere week after Koussa's departure, on April 3, 2011, Al-Obeidi flew to Greece to present a peace proposal to his Greek counterpart, Dimitrios Droutsas, in a bid to restore stability to the region.
However, as the conflict escalated, Al-Obeidi's destiny took a treacherous turn. On August 31, 2011, rebel forces apprehended him west of Tripoli. Following an extensive legal process, in June 2013, he was eventually acquitted of charges related to mismanagement.
Abdel Ati bin Ibrahim Al-Obeidi's passing marks the end of an era for Libya. The nation is reflecting on his unparalleled contributions to its political history and global affairs. He will forever be remembered as a diplomatic stalwart and a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape Libya's future.
As Libya mourns his loss, the nation joins his family in commemorating his remarkable life and enduring achievements.