AU Expresses Concern Over Crisis In Libya

AU Expresses Concern Over Crisis In Libya

The African Union has expressed concerned over the continuing deterioration of the political situation in Libya .

AU Commission Chairperson, Dr. Jean Ping, condemned the disproportionate use of force against civilians and decreed the lost of many lives so far.

In a statement by the Information and Communication Department of the Commission in Addis Ababa , Dr. Ping reiterated the appeal by the Commission's Peace and Security Council, for an immediate end to the repression and violence.

''The Chairperson, who is in contact with the Libyan authority and other actors, will pursue the Commission's efforts for an end to spilling of blood in the country'' . The statement said.

Dialogue and consultation

He said only dialogue and consultation would enable Libyans to find appropriate solution to the challenges facing their country and to embark upon the necessary reforms to fulfill their aspirations.

Ping, therefore, encouraged all the actors concerned to favour dialogue in order to open a new prospect for Libya in peace, security and democracy.

Similarly, United States President, Barack Obama, has strongly condemned the political violence in Libya and stressed that the international community is sending a unified message to Colonel Muammar Gaddafi.

Restraint

He expressed support for the goals of pro-democracy protesters across the region and urged all governments to show restraint in their response.

President Obama said his first priority remains the safety of American citizens, who were being evacuated from Libya .

In his first public comments on the crisis there, President Obama said the violence against the demonstrators was unacceptable.

His administration - along with the European Union - is considering imposing sanctions on Libya as part of the 'full range of options' to respond to the violent crackdown.

FSN/ NAN/Margaret