Libya’s trouble-stirrer

Press, 21 August 1976, Page 12

Libya’s trouble-stirrer

For ways that are both dark and devious no Arab leader in North Africa can match the Libyan dictator. Colonel Muammar Gadaffi. Since his Government took power in 1969 he has built a record of interference in the administrative affairs of other countries—interference not confined to the Middle East. Quite apart from his assistance to the extreme Palestinian groups, he has set the seal of his approval on the activities of the Irish Republican Army and the Filipino Moslems How much longer he can cling to power in Libya—including the border area seized from Chad in his bid to possess the uranium deposits thought to be there—is a question that must often be debated in other Arab capitals, notably Cairo and Khartoum. >

The grab in Chad, only a year ago, was a timely reminder that' Colonel Gadaffi had, among his other crazy dreams, one that would convert Libva Into a nuclear power in Africa—of course, “for the good of peace”. He had sought technical help from China —which, fortunately, was flatly refused by Chou En-lai. In his own country. Colonel Gadaffi still appears to command much popular support He asserted Libya's independent status and regard for exclusive Islamic law'm 1970 by ousting the British and Americans from their bases. He has used substan-

tial oil resources to improve living standards for his people; and he was one of the first African leaders to press for higher oil prices and broader State participation in the industry. Notwithstanding these achievements. he maintains his rule by oppression. His riot police are quite ruthless in quelling protests in the streets, as was shown in the suppression of student riots in Benghazi at the beginning of this year. Even the membership of the Students’ Union is •screened to ensure that students have approved political views and are members of the Arab Socialist Union, the only permitted political party. Elsewhere in North Africa Colonef Gadaffi, because of his political meddling, is openly distrusted. He was, v.ithout question, behind the July attempt to assassinate President Nemery of Sudan. Libya’s formerly friendly relations with Egypt have deteriorated to the point at which President Sadat openly describes Gadaffi as a “ madman ” encouraged and aided by Moscow in his efforts to destroy Arab solidarity. Libyans arrested in Cairo in recent months are accused of bombings and involvement in assassination plots. Mr Sadat and Mr Nemery would specially welcome an end to the Libyan dictatorship.