The Global Pan African Movement stands in solidarity with African peoples in Libya and Morocco as we continue to hear about the devastating impact of massive rainfall and flooding in Derna, Libya and the earthquake that has affected Marrakech and villages southwest of the Moroccan city. With horrific stories emerging, the death toll in each country has surpassed 2,000 people and the destruction of the communities affected are yet to be fully understood.

The event in Libya not only shows the seriousness of climate change for African peoples, but also speaks to the crisis of imperialism. The crisis we refer to has not only led to poor public infrastructure maintenance, but also the existence of two different governments whose varying structures are likely to affect the ability to respond to the floods and related devastations. This goes without saying that the impact of sanctions on Libya since 2011 has prevented international donors from sending money directly to Libyans in Libya. This crisis is another indication of the inhumanity of sanctions and their role in inflicting collective punishment on a population already suffering from natural disaster.

The GPAM calls on all factions in Libya to prioritize the people’s safety and resettlement, along with the lifting of sanctions on the country.

May those that have joined the ancestors rest in peace.