The Tripoli-based national Council of Libyan Elders cautioned young people to not rush to Sirte to wage war against the Islamic State (IS) in the town, “unless it’s coordinated with the authorities and the army forces, and based on proper military decisions including general mobilisation.”

In a statement issued Tuesday in Tripoli, the council , which consists of representatives of the country’s communities and tribes, also stressed the importance of the “ongoing Dialogue to reach the National Unity Government,” being negotiated by and warned all political stakeholders of their “historical responsibility” for any delays producing it.

The statement about not rushing to Sirte contradicts that of Sheikh Sadek Al-Ghariani, sacked by the House of Representatives as Grand Mufti but still accepted as such by the authorities in Tripoli. In a statement issued by his Dar Al-Ifta (Fatwa House), the controversial sheikh called on all civilians capable of taking up arms, to head to Sirte and defend residents from persecution by IS.

The Elders also called for a census of all Libyans inside and outside the country, to be carried out under the UN supervision, “before addressing any controversial and disputing topics or the constitutional referendum”.

The council also sent condolences for those killed in fighting IS in Sirte “and the victims of a sunken boat off the Libyan coast.” They were all martyrs for Libya, the statement said.

 By Libya Herald reporter.

https://www.libyaherald.com/2015/08/18/council-of-libyan-elders-warns-ag...