Joyful crowds pack Martyrs’ Square in Tripoli

31/08/11 13:05 CET

world news

| |

Tens of thousands of worshippers have gathered in the newly-renamed Martyrs’ Square in Tripoli. This is one Eid they will never forget – the first since the fall of the Gaddafi regime.

The end of the Holy month of Ramadan is a time for relief and relaxation – but the joy here this year is palpable.

“We never thought we would feel like this, I never thought I see this happen in my lifetime,” said one woman. “There has always just been Muammar. It is the first time we have been able to celebrate Eid with joy and not tears.”

“One of my brothers was killed in the conflict, I only have one left now,” said another woman. “We are the El Hammi family and we are rejoicing at Gaddafi’s fate.”

“Eid without Gaddafi is the best one yet,” added a small boy, wrapped in the Libyan flag.

Libya has only taken its first few steps on the road to recovery after more than 40 years of authoritarian rule.

But the people here just want to savour the moment.

Our correspondent says people in Tripoli have a double reason to celebrate this year, it is Eid and Gaddafi has left the city. Green Square has been renamed Martyrs’ Square, and there is a lot of emotion.

More about: Armed conflicts, Islam, Libya, Muammar Gaddafi, Ramadan

| |

Greek polls soothe euro exit fears

Six new opinion polls all hand Greece’s pro-bailout parties victory in next month’s general election. The results from those voter surveys reassured investors worried about a possible Greek exit if…