Gaddafi's killing ends painful chapter for Libyans

BASSETERRE (CMC):

The 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) says the killing of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi marks the end of a "painful and tumultuous chapter" for Libyans who have endured a protracted conflict in that country over the past eight months.

CARICOM Chairman, Dr Denzil L. Douglas, in a statement also expressed concern of widespread reports of violations of human rights against former members of the Libyan government and other minority groups, including migrants from sub-Saharan countries.

"The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recognises that Libya has entered a critical and decisive transitional phase, and calls on combatants on all sides to lay down their arms in peace," said Douglas, who is the St Kitts and Nevis prime minister.

The CARICOM chairman called on the Libyans, led by the interim National Transitional Council (NTC), as well as the international community, to intensify efforts to promote reconciliation and nation-building within the country and to accelerate the transition to democratic governance where the rule of law is fully respected and basic human rights guaranteed for all.

"The (CARICOM) Community also calls on the NTC to ensure the process of reconciliation and nation-building leads to the establishment of a constitutional and legislative framework for the democratic transformation of Libya, including the holding of free and fair elections," said Douglas.