Cabinet endorses UNSC decision on Libya

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Pretoria - Cabinet has welcomed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution to impose an arms embargo on Libya saying it remained concerned about the deteriorating situation in the oil-rich North African country. 

"As a member of the UNSC, South Africa voted in favour of the resolution...Cabinet expressed its concern about the deteriorating situation in Libya which has resulted in untold atrocities and loss of civilian lives," said Cabinet spokesperson Jimmy Manyi on Thursday following an ordinary Cabinet meeting.

More than 6000 people have reportedly been killed in Libya since a revolt against the country's ruler Muammar Gaddafi broke out a few weeks ago. Gaddafi has refused to bow to pressure for him to end his 40-year-rule, vowing to crush all opposition. 

Manyi said the resolution sent "a clear and ambiguous message" to the Libyan authorities to end the carnage against its people. 

Pretoria was confident that measures contained in the UNSC resolution would contribute towards the long-term objective of bringing peace and stability in Libya. "South Africa calls 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," added Manyi. - BuaNews