Massad Boulos deal sparks backlash in Misurata

A broad coalition of political and social groups in Misurata has rejected what it described as a “suspicious” political agreement, criticising an arrangement attributed to Massad Boulos and warning against attempts to reshape Libya’s political landscape through informal deals.

The position was outlined in a statement issued during a large public gathering at the Misurata Iron and Steel Complex, where participants voiced concern over what they characterised as an interest-driven agreement that could entrench political influence along narrow lines.

Attendees said they were “surprised” by the emergence of the reported deal, alleging that it paves the way for power-sharing arrangements based on influence rather than national consensus. They stressed that any individuals involved in negotiations to divide state revenues or redistribute political and military authority “represent only themselves”.

The statement expressed full rejection of the alleged agreement linked to Boulos and the parties involved, describing it as lacking legitimacy and undermining institutional frameworks.

Participants also firmly opposed granting any future role to individuals accused of involvement in violence or mismanagement of public resources. They warned against attempts to reintroduce such figures into Libya’s political process through externally backed arrangements.

The gathering further reiterated its categorical rejection of any engagement with forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar or his sons, citing their actions during the conflict in Tripoli. It rejected any effort to legitimise them within future political settlements.

The coalition concluded by affirming that the legitimate representation of Misurata rests with its elected municipal council, alongside forces aligned with the principles of the Libyan Revolution of 2011.

The statement highlights ongoing divisions within Libya’s political landscape, as rival factions continue to contest the terms of any prospective settlement amid renewed international efforts to advance a unified political process.