Libya – Political analyst Kamel al-Merash says launching reconstruction projects carries no economic risk, stressing that the real danger lies in “phantom projects” that drain public budgets without leaving any trace on the ground.
Reconstruction beats corruption and looting
Speaking to Erem News, al-Merash argued that investing in genuine rebuilding is far better than allowing funds to be siphoned off through graft. He urged officials to channel spending toward projects that deliver tangible results for ordinary Libyans.
Successful models in the east and south
A simple comparison, he added, shows a clear difference: reconstruction efforts in eastern and southern Libya began less than two years ago and are already producing visible outcomes. Derna—devastated by a major disaster—now undergoes a comprehensive rebuild “to the highest standards and technologies.” Cities such as Benghazi, Sirte, Sabha, Murzuq and Ajdabiya, he said, also witness continuous construction activity.
Criticism of Dbeibah government’s western projects
Al-Merash sharply criticised Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah’s government, contending its initiatives have rarely extended beyond Tripoli and have been marred by corruption and mismanagement. Despite spending more than 480 billion Libyan dinars since taking office, he noted, western cities have seen no significant reconstruction since 2011.
