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Widespread Controversy in Libya Following Decision to Ban New Year Celebrations
The Libyan government's decision to ban New Year celebrations has sparked widespread controversy in the country, with authorities threatening legal penalties for violators. In eastern Libya, relevant authorities issued a decree to pursue and punish anyone celebrating the new year and to detain those who display signs of celebration.
The municipal guard in Benghazi announced that they would launch intensive inspection campaigns on stores selling celebration supplies, resulting in the seizure of decoration materials and items related to the New Year in one of the stores, which were confiscated immediately. Guard members warned all merchants against selling these goods, citing "violations of Islamic law," and confirmed that they would take legal action against offenders.
For his part, MP Saleh Afhima expressed his support for the decision, considering it part of preserving the Islamic identity of the Libyan state. He noted that Libya is a Muslim country with no other religions present, while emphasizing the importance of coexistence and freedom of worship.
Conversely, MP Bulaqsim Qzeet condemned the link between celebrations and a religious perspective, pointing out that many communities worldwide celebrate the New Year for reasons related to joy and festivity, without religious implications. Qzeet asserted that various nationalities are present in Libya and have the right to celebrate, arguing that security forces focus on regulating these celebrations while ignoring larger issues such as drug trafficking and human trafficking.
Reactions to this decision continue to emerge, and it seems that the discussion regarding the balance between religious values and social joy will persist in igniting debate within Libyan circles.
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