Libya’s eastern government rejects new Tripoli council

Libya’s eastern-based government on Friday rejected a new “Supreme Council of Presidencies” formed by rival authorities in Tripoli, declaring the body void and warning that further political deadlock could push the east toward autonomy.
The administration led by Osama Hamad, appointed by the eastern-based parliament, said the council announced on Thursday lacks legal authority and threatens the country’s fragile stability.
In a statement, the eastern government said the initiative “undermines institutional stability, obstructs the electoral process and creates an unconstitutional crisis.” It urged the international community to shun the new body and warned that continued delays in national elections could force the east to demand self-rule.