The Libyan interim government, led by Osama Hamad, announced the formation of a new religious body, the Supreme Fatwa House, based in Benghazi.
This initiative is outlined in decree number 157 of 2024, which establishes the institution as a legal entity with independent financial standing, directly reporting to the Cabinet.
Located in Benghazi, the main headquarters of the Supreme Fatwa House, this new body is authorized to open branches and offices as required by the nature of its work.
The House will issue religious edicts (fatwas) through a Fatwa Council.
The decree specifies the core components of the Fatwa House, detailing the roles and responsibilities of the Grand Mufti, the Fatwa Council, branch Muftis, and local Muftis.
It mandates that the President, council members, and all Muftis remain impartial and avoid any political or regional biases in their duty of issuing fatwas.
One of the key functions of the Fatwa Council and the Fatwa House will be the sighting of the moon to determine the start of months, which is particularly significant for religious observances and holidays.
Additionally, the decree includes general and essential provisions regarding the issuance and respect of fatwas by all citizens, outlining procedures for grievances against fatwas.
It also affirms that the primary references for issuing fatwas will be the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, according to the prevailing doctrine in Libya.
On a separate note, the Libyan Investment Authority (LIA) has declared that the imposition of judicial guardianship over its assets can only occur through mutual agreement of the parties involved or by a judicial decree, not by a unilateral order without the presence or representation of the parties concerned.
This clarification came in a statement released today by the Oil Corporation, responding to a unilateral order issued by the Ajdabiya Primary Court to impose judicial guardianship on the assets and funds of the institution.
