Hannibal Gaddafi’s Lawyers Decry Travel Ban as Contradictory to Release
In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday, the defense team representing Hannibal Gaddafi has voiced its disapproval of the travel ban imposed on their client, deeming it contradictory to the terms of his release. The lawyers assert that the bail, set by the Lebanese judiciary, is excessive and that the travel restriction undermines the principle of his freedom.
A Decade of Injustice
The legal team emphasized that the very concept of bail is legally unacceptable, viewing it as a continuation of the injustice Hannibal has endured for over ten years. They argue that the travel ban further restricts his freedom and directly contradicts the release order, which should restore his full rights and liberty. According to the lawyers, Hannibal should be the sole decision-maker regarding his travel plans following the lifting of all legal constraints.
Rejection of International Involvement
The defense also refuted claims of offers or contacts from international bodies, confirming that no communication has occurred with Hannibal or his legal team on this matter. The team unequivocally rejected any attempts to involve Hannibal in any settlement, of any kind, stressing that his case is purely legal and humanitarian and should not be linked to other issues or considerations.
Media Responsibility and Accuracy
The legal team has called upon all media outlets and news websites to handle the information with accuracy and responsibility, avoiding the dissemination of unreliable news that could mislead the public and negatively impact the case’s progress. They wish to ensure that the facts are accurately reported.
Background of the Case
The Lebanese judiciary ordered Hannibal Gaddafi’s release on October 17th, after detaining him for a decade without trial. The release was granted on the condition of an $11 million bail. Hannibal’s French lawyer, Laurent Bayon, stated that the conditional release with bail is unacceptable in a case of arbitrary detention. He pointed out that his client is subject to international sanctions and cannot secure such an amount. Hannibal, 49, was arrested in December 2015 by Lebanese authorities on charges of withholding information about the disappearance of Lebanese cleric Moussa al-Sadr and two others during a visit to Libya in August 1978. Hannibal was just two years old when his father ruled Libya.
Since his arrest, Hannibal has not been brought to trial and has been held in solitary confinement.
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