Member of the House of Representatives, Jaballa al-Shibani, has raised concerns regarding attempts to expand urban development east of Misrata, cautioning that such moves infringe upon lands legally owned by the people of Tawergha. Writing on Facebook, al-Shibani argued that recent statements by the Mayor of Misrata regarding eastward expansion signal an intent to seize documented tribal lands under the pretext of government development projects. He noted that this strategy began with the administrative decision to merge the Tawergha municipality into Misrata, followed by the appointment of subordinate local officials.
The lawmaker emphasised that despite the current challenges facing the legal system, the judiciary remains the primary recourse for protecting property rights. He asserted that these claims are not subject to a statute of limitations and that judicial rulings could nullify any illegal administrative measures taken during this period of instability. al-Shibani further warned that such expansionist moves threaten the fragile progress made toward national reconciliation and peaceful social coexistence between the neighbouring communities.
Concluding his statement, al-Shibani called for a shift toward dialogue and mutual understanding, stressing the importance of respecting administrative, social, and economic rights. He urged all parties to move away from policies of exclusion and to work collaboratively to resolve historical grievances. By prioritising legal frameworks over unilateral actions, he argued, the region can move past its turbulent history and build a more secure and inclusive future for the next generation.