Libya’s grand mufti accuses authorities over mosque destruction

Libya’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Al-Sadiq Al-Ghariani, has accused a group he referred to as the “Madkhalis” of carrying out attacks on mosques and religious sites, while alleging that official bodies in Tripoli are providing them with protection.

Speaking during the Islam and Life programme broadcast on Tanasuh TV, Al-Ghariani described the situation as “extremely dangerous”. He claimed that the same group had been involved in the destruction of shrines and graves in several Libyan cities since 2011, including Tajoura, Tripoli and Misrata.

He said those responsible justify such actions on religious grounds, while stressing that the issue of graves within mosques has long been addressed by established Islamic scholarship.

Al-Ghariani explained that the religious ruling varies depending on the condition of the grave. If the burial is recent, he said the remains should be exhumed and transferred to a Muslim cemetery. If the grave is old and has a visible structure built over it, the structure should be removed and levelled, but the grave itself should not be disturbed.

He said this approach reflects the views of recognised scholars, adding that acts involving explosions and destruction constitute an assault on public property and the rights of citizens. He stressed that waqf property is a public trust and must not be violated.

The Grand Mufti also criticised the government, accusing the Awqaf Authority in Tripoli of tolerating such actions despite being an official institution with a public budget. He said similar incidents had occurred previously in several Libyan cities.

Al-Ghariani further criticised the intelligence services, alleging that they target individuals who oppose Khalifa Haftar or, in his words, “speak the truth”. Addressing the Presidential Council, he called for a review of the agency’s performance and for those responsible to be held accountable.

He questioned why certain officials remain in their positions despite what he described as “injustice” and “failure”, suggesting that personal interests may explain their continued tenure.

He concluded by warning that some figures within the government are themselves dissatisfied with the performance of the intelligence apparatus, alleging widespread corruption and unlawful detentions. He said responsibility for the continuation of such practices ultimately rests with those overseeing these institutions.