LIBYA. Tripoli authorities cede power to unity government

Tripoli - The authorities in Libya's capital announced on Tuesday they were ceding power to a UN-backed unity government in the interests of the divided country.

Libya's Prime Minister-designate, Fayez al-Sarraj speaks during a press in the Moroccan resort of Skhirat. (AFP)

"We inform you that we are ceasing the activities entrusted to us as a legislative power, presidency, parliamentarians and ministers," said a statement, issued almost a week after prime minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj arrived in Tripoli to assert the unity government's authority.

The statement, received by AFP and published on the website of the justice ministry of the unrecognised Tripoli authorities, said the decision to step aside was taken to prevent further divisions and bloodshed.

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