In a move that solidifies the family’s control over eastern Libya, the House of Representatives in Benghazi has approved the appointment of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar’s son, Saddam Haftar, as Deputy Commander of the General Command.
These promotions are seen as an effort to structure a family-based succession within the Libyan National Army (LNA).
During an official ceremony on August 23, 34-year-old Saddam Haftar was sworn in as his father’s second-in-command. He previously served as Chief of Staff of the Land Forces and commanded the Tariq Ben Ziyad Brigade. In addition, his brother Khaled was promoted to Chief of Staff. Another relative, Belkacem, is responsible for managing significant financial resources related to reconstruction.
These appointments formalize a family structure of military power in eastern Libya and are viewed by many observers as a sign of defiance toward international efforts to restart the country’s political process.
Saddam Haftar has been an active figure on the political and diplomatic stage for several years, representing his father’s camp during official visits to countries like Turkey, Niger, and Burkina Faso. His rise has been bolstered by his influence within economic networks, especially the oil sector, and his growing authority within the military.
The announcements have not yet drawn significant opposition within Libya. The president of the High Council of State in Tripoli, Mohamed Takala, issued a critical statement, but major international powers have remained silent. These developments suggest that Field Marshal Haftar is working to ensure a smooth succession and prevent the internal rivalries that have destabilized other regimes.
MK/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA