Tripoli, November 7 (BNA) The Libyan Presidency Council suspended the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Najlaa Manqoush, for committing “administrative violations” and prevented her from traveling, according to his spokesperson today, Saturday.
Spokeswoman Najwa Wahiba confirmed the authenticity of a document circulating on social media, ordering to stop Mangoush from practicing foreign policy without coordinating with the council, Reuters reported.
Early Sunday, the transitional Libyan National Unity Government issued a statement rejecting the council’s decision and praising the minister’s efforts, and said that she would perform her duties normally.
The statement, issued on the government’s Facebook page, said the Presidency Council “has no legal right to appoint, cancel the appointment, suspend or investigate members of the executive branch.” She added that these powers belong to the Prime Minister.
The Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, a grouping chosen by the United Nations to develop a roadmap for peace in Libya, has chosen a three-man presidential council headed by Mohamed Manfi until elections are held.
The row over the council’s suspension of the secretary of state is likely to heighten tensions between Libya’s rival factions as they try to work together after years of conflict.