Martin Kobler Strongly Condemns Human Rights Activist’s Assassination in Derna: I am Shocked by this Heinous Murder

17 March 2016 - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Martin Kobler, strongly condemns the assassination of a prominent civil society activist, Mr. Abdul Basit Abu-Dahab, yesterday in Derna. He expresses his deep sympathy and sincere condolences to his family.

“Mr. Abu-Dahab has worked courageously for years towards the establishment of the rule of law and respect of human rights. He is an example of courage, selflessness and dedication. I am utterly shocked by his heinous murder. My thoughts go to Mr. Abu-Dahab’ family, his wife and his five children”, Martin Kobler said.

The Special Representative added: “Taking enormous risks, exposing themselves to persecution, abduction and even murder, activists in Libya continue to work for peace and respect of human rights. I call on all Libyan stakeholders and those with effective control on the ground to protect activists and human rights defenders from any harm or intimidation”. He said “Abu-Dahab’s untimely death is a heinous murder, and must be investigated and those responsible should be brought to justice.”

Background:
Mr. Abu-Dahab was killed on 16 March 2016 in downtown Derna by a bomb placed in his vehicle. Abu Dahab has been subjected to numerous death threats to get him to stop his work and public media appearances. Mr. Abu-Dahab has already survived one assassination attempt, on 12 September 2014, and there had been an explosion at his office in central Derna on 5 December 2013.