Hagan Comments on Death of Libyan Dictator Moammar Qaddafi

Statement

United States Senator Kay R. Hagan (NC) today commented on the death of Libyan dictator Moammar Qaddafi.

"The death of Moammar Qaddafi brings to an end a bloody and protracted revolution against the ruthless and despotic rule of his regime. The Transitional National Council (TNC) can now focus on a peaceful transition to unify a country that has experienced authoritarian rule for 47 years. The TNC must now initiate a democratic process that leads to a general election of a national council. They must also set in motion a program to control their borders and prevent the proliferation of dangerous weapons and armed militias.

"I applaud President Obama's approach to bringing this brutal dictatorship to its end through his support of a NATO mission that kept American participation to a minimum. U.S. involvement was strategically critical and it allowed our European allies to take the lead and kept American troops off the ground in Libya.

"It's well known that many weapons depots were raided during the turmoil and as Chair of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee, I am concerned about their proliferation, especially shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles, and explosive ordinance that can be converted into improvised explosive devices. I am encouraged to know that the United States is working with our allies in attempting to locate and secure these weapons.

"We must stand with the Libyan people in support of a democratic transition that is broadly inclusive of the populace, promotes national unity and reflects the will and rights of all citizens. I am hopeful that this transition will lead to greater stability in the region."

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