Tripoli celebrates Martyrs’ Day

By Tom Westcott and Seraj Essul.

Young army recruits begin their march around Martyrs’ Square (Photo: Tom Westcott, Libya Herald)

Tripoli, 17 September 2013:
The centre of Tripoli was last night filled with people gathered to celebrate Martyrs’ Day.
New young military recruits led an impressive march around the square, as a helicopter flew low overhead. The march was followed by speeches praising those who sacrificed their lives for a free Libya and reminding those present that their memories should always be honoured.

Families of the martyrs sat on a stage in the centre of Martyrs’ Square (Photo: Seraj Essul, Libya Herald)

Yesterday’s date marked the anniversary of the execution, in 1931, of Omar Mukhtar, who led the revolt against Italian colonial forces. Since the 17 February Revolution, 16 September has also become the day when all Libyan martyrs are commemorated.

Images of Omar Mukhtar reminded those present of historical martyrs who died fighting against Italian colonialism (Photo: Tom Westcott, Libya Herald)

The square was closed to traffic and all nearby roads heavily guarded by military personnel. However, there was no evidence of anyone wishing to disrupt the celebrations.

Spectators cheered the young soldiers as they marched around the square (Photo: Seraj Essul, Libya Herald)

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