Col Gaddafi is the leader of the Libyan Revolutionary Command Council. Libya has no formal constitution and Col Gaddafi has been leading the country on the principle of people-driven governance called the Jamahiriya system. South Africa has condemned the use of force leading to the loss of lives in Libya. South Africa has not called for the resignation of the Libyan leader as it subscribes to the international principle of no intervention in the domestic affairs of other countries.
South Africa issued a statement on 21 February 2011, noting great concern for the loss of lives, following antigovernment demonstrations in Libya. Furthermore, South Africa called on the government and the people of Libya to seek a speedy and peaceful resolution to the current crisis in accordance with the will of the people.
The United Nations, UN, condemned the violence and use of force against the civilians; deplored the repression against demonstrators and expressed deep regret at the death of hundreds of civilians. They called for an immediate end to the violence and for steps to address the legitimate demands of the population, including through national dialogue.
South Africa supported the UN resolution which further complemented the decision of the African Union, AU, Peace and Security Council condemning the indiscriminate and excessive use of force against peaceful protesters. South Africa called upon the Libyan authorities to end, forthwith, all acts of violence in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law. Thank you, Chairperson.