This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.
You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/world-middle-east-16325383
The article has changed 5 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.
| Version 1 | Version 2 |
|---|---|
| Libya independence: King Idris anniversary celebrated | Libya independence: King Idris anniversary celebrated |
| (about 7 hours later) | |
| For the first time in 42 years, Libya is celebrating the anniversary of its independence. | For the first time in 42 years, Libya is celebrating the anniversary of its independence. |
| The united Libyan Kingdom was formed on 24 December 1951 under King Idris. | The united Libyan Kingdom was formed on 24 December 1951 under King Idris. |
| However, after Col Muammar Gaddafi seized power in 1969, only the date of his coup was allowed to be marked. | However, after Col Muammar Gaddafi seized power in 1969, only the date of his coup was allowed to be marked. |
| Celebrations are planned in Tripoli, including lunch for several thousand, served on tables which organisers say could stretch for 2km (1.2 miles) along Tripoli's seafront. | Celebrations are planned in Tripoli, including lunch for several thousand, served on tables which organisers say could stretch for 2km (1.2 miles) along Tripoli's seafront. |
| The day's central event will be a march from Martyrs Square to the country's national museum - the former Royal Palace - where there will be speeches. | The day's central event will be a march from Martyrs Square to the country's national museum - the former Royal Palace - where there will be speeches. |
| The rally has begun, with senior members of the Libyan National Transitional Council, including its chairman, Mustafa Abdul Jalil, and interim Prime Minister Abdurrahim al-Keib, expected to be joined by a number of international dignitaries. | |
| Many Libyans remain unaware of the significance of 24 December due to the anniversary not being celebrated under Col Gaddafi's four-decade rule. | Many Libyans remain unaware of the significance of 24 December due to the anniversary not being celebrated under Col Gaddafi's four-decade rule. |
| Libya has huge challenges ahead, says the BBC's Mark Lowen in Tripoli: building a strong national government, disarming the militias that still wield power here, and promoting reconciliation. | Libya has huge challenges ahead, says the BBC's Mark Lowen in Tripoli: building a strong national government, disarming the militias that still wield power here, and promoting reconciliation. |
| But for one day on Saturday, the party will take priority as Libyans savour this celebration, he says. | But for one day on Saturday, the party will take priority as Libyans savour this celebration, he says. |