Libyan Fighters Return to Benghazi

Libyans turned out in droves to welcome the fighters returning to their hometown of Benghazi after capturing Sirte, the last stronghold of former leader Muammar Qaddafi.

Women and children waved flags and sang songs while men shook the hands of the fighters who walked the streets amidst the sounds of beating drums.

The capture and killing of Qaddafi was celebrated across the country as Libyans look forward to beginning a new phase in the rebuilding of their country.

Mahmoud Jibril, Libya’s interim prime minister who resigned on Saturday, called on new leaders to take advantage of the moment and nip brewing rivalries in the bud.

Meanwhile in Misrata, a public space has been dedicated to the statues found in Qaddafi’s Bab al-Aziziya compound, displayed as trophies of war.

One resident said such space conveyed the struggles and triumphs the rebel fighters achieved in toppling Qaddafi and his regime.

Another resident said the statues symbolized the defeat of Qaddafi’s reign.

Qaddafi was killed on October 20th in Sirte, after being captured by the rebel fighters. While disputes have emerged over Qaddafi’s yet-to-be-buried body, it remains on display for residents to see. The NTC said on Sunday that it would hand over Qaddafi’s body to his extended family after discussing with them a location for his burial.