Security in Libya worsening, Ban says following abduction of Prime Minister

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced relief at the release of Prime Minister Ali Zeidan of Libya, who was abducted earlier today, and noted that acts of violence are increasing and security is worsening in the North African nation.

The Prime Minister was reportedly abducted from a hotel in the capital, Tripoli, and held for several hours by armed men.

Mr. Ban, who condemned the abduction, said Libya is facing “a deteriorating security situation and increasing acts of violence,” according to a statement issued by his spokesperson.

“The Secretary-General calls on all Libyan parties and the Libyan people to form consensus around national priorities and work towards building a strong, stable country, respectful of the rule of law and the protection of human rights.”

Mr. Ban also reiterated the support of the United Nations for the Libyan people as they aspire to establish a democratic State and move forward the political transformation of their country, and called on the international community to support them in this process.

The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) also denounced the Prime Minister’s abduction and called on all parties to continue the transitional political process and affirm the legitimacy of democratically-elected institutions.

UNSMIL has been supporting the efforts of the Libyan Government and people to ensure the success of the democratic transition process, which has been under way since the toppling of Muammar al-Qadhafi two years ago.