Cairo- Some leaders from the former Libyan regime have held meetings in Libya, Egypt and Tunisia to determine their stance from Saif al-Islam, 44, son of late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, days after releasing him by virtue of the act of amnesty while others said that Saif al-Islam has several political and militarily options in case he wishes to play a role in the country’s future.
Tayeb al-Safi, official in Gaddafi’s last government, told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saif al-Islam is among his family and tribe but the Libyan public prosecution announced that he is still wanted because he was sentenced in absentia in 2015.
Releasing him triggered various reactions on his future in Libya and what he would do in a country witnessing a fierce struggle over power.
Safi, like many former regime officials, refused to state Saif al-Islam’s place of residence in the meantime.
Sherif al-Helwa, American expert in Middle East affairs, told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saif al-Islam has cards that he can use to blackmail the West and I don’t think he will succeed on the long-run.
He added, “Saif might be a good tool to divide Libya.”
Tariq al-Qaziri, a former political advisor at the national dialogue, said that in case the act of amnesty was confirmed then Saif would be infront of three options based on tribal or political basis and the weakest option is allying with Haftar.
According to Libyan tribal and political sources, several meetings were held among Libyan leaders in Egypt and Tunisia during the past two days to set new arrangements following the release of Saif al-Islam.
“If Saif was truly released then he would be basically infront of three options: first to impose his presence in the field through relying on the former regime supporters, second to chose peace and try launching a communicative, forgiving and negotiating dialogue,” Qaziri told Asharq Al-Awsat.
“As for the option of colliding with Haftar then this is possible but I don’t expect it to be beneficial for him,” he added.