Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK) Statement of Concern on the Situation in Libya

Prayers and
hope for peaceful and just transformation of the conflict in Libya

The
Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK) is gravely concerned by the
deterioration of the political situation in Libya. We have
been informed that on Monday February 21, the government
forces have cracked down
violently on demonstrators, even using fighter jets to attack people on the
ground in the capital Tripoli, while on Tuesday, the Libyan army deployed a
large number of government security forces soldiers in Sabratah, west of the
capital Tripoli, after protesters destroyed security services offices. Hundreds
of protesters have been killed in the clashes for last few days. We are afraid
that when the violent clashes between government forces and the protesters
escalate, there will be more casualties from the civilian population.

We
strongly condemn the use of force on the protesters that has already killed and
maimed more than a hundred of them. The Libyan government must exercise
restraint in dealing with the protesters. Together with the World Council of
Churches and partner churches around the world we call on the
Libyan government to respect the human rights of all people and begin the
process to realize democracy in Libya. We urge the use of all
peaceful means to end the violence, and also that efforts be made to ensure a
future that brings peace with justice and security for all people. We believe
that the goal of every government is to best serve the interests of its people
and that their demands must be listened and responded to.

The
Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK) joins faith communities
around the world in fervent prayers and hope for peaceful and just
transformation of the conflict in Libya.