Libya's Parliament: Mercenaries Must be Expelled to Resume Political Talks

On Saturday, the Libyan Parliament spokesman Abdullah Blehaq emphasized the need to expel the mercenaries from Libya following the ceasefire agreement to allow the resumption of political dialogue and the formation of a national unity government that meets Libyan people's aspirations.

Blehaq clarified in press statements that the step of establishing a new presidential council and forming a national unity government would unify the institutions of the Libyan state.

These steps would prepare the political climate for the next phase, which includes holding presidential and legislative elections.

On Friday morning, the GNA, which is based in the west of the country, issued a statement announcing a ceasefire across the country. It also called for the demilitarization of the contested strategic cities of Sirte and Al-Jufrah, which is controlled by the LNA.

In a separate statement, Aguila Saleh also called for a ceasefire. Both bodies called for an end to the oil blockade imposed, earlier this year. The Tripoli-based government also called for parliamentary and presidential elections to be held in March.