Mustafa Abdel Jalil’s liberation speech triggered spasms of self-doubt and “I told you sos” across the West. In short, Libya will be an Islamic state and sharia law will provide a legislative foundation. Oh, and guys, take as many wives as you want while you’re at it. While it seemed to take many by surprise it probably shouldn’t have. An Islamic democracy has always been the best possible outcome here. Hopefully, they will find a way to follow through on the democratic aspects of that model as well.
Libya’s future will be determined by the National Transitional Council’s ability to transition a lot of well-armed militia members back to civilian status – the kind of civilians who don’t carry RPGs. It will be determined by their ability to bring stability and hope to a country torn by revolution. Walking the line between Western democratic ideals and a conservative Islamic culture is no easy task. The “liberation” speech should not be read as a rejection of that attempt but rather the beginning.
It remains to be seen whether the NTC can handle this task. Another unknown is the level of Western commitment to Libya’s success. If things go south will we ramp up support, unleash drones on splinter groups, or put boots on the ground? We may not know the answers yet but I hope we are preparing for the challenges ahead.
“New Libyan Army” Seizes Base at Center of Militia Feud
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UNSC Expresses “Concern” Over Libyan Weapons
Well, the UN is officially concerned. Expressions of concern won’t levitate a “liberated” MANPAD from the shoulder of an al-Qaeda foot soldier but this is part of the process. Unfortunately,...
Lieberman: Concerns Over Internet ‘Kill Switch’ Driven by ‘Misinformation’
Senators and the Internet – A sometimes amusing, often terrifying, combination: Asked on CNN’s “State of the Union” Sunday whether he was trying to “seize control or shut down” the...
General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s D-Day Speech
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Video: Tim Robbins’ Anti-War Rally Speech
It’s odd to say the least. He spaces out near the end. I guess the acid was kicking in. Digg this post Recommend on Facebook Share on Linkedin Share on...
