Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Death of a Dictator

Longtime Libyan dictator Moammar Gaddafi was killed this morning, shot several times by rebel forces who have fought for months against his oppression, according to The Huffington Post. (Warning: Link contains graphic images.)

Two months ago, Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger said it was He reflected on the end of the dictator's four decade reign today.

“Today marks the beginning of a new era in Libya with the end of the 42-year reign of a ruthless dictator who was wanted by the International Criminal Court on charges of ordering the killing of civilians,” Ruppersberger wrote in a statement today.

“The Libyan people now have the opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their families.  The Transitional National Council (TNC), with support from the international community, can now focus its efforts toward promoting democracy, freedom and human rights for all Libyans with a unity government, so the will of the Libyan people can be expressed.  The international community looks forward to a peaceful transition and free and fair elections in Libya.”     

Gaddafi was captured in his hometown of Sirte, after attempting to flee via convoy, writes the Associated Press.

“The UN-led mission, supported by an unprecedented coalition of countries including the Arab League and European allies, prevented the widespread massacre of thousands of innocent Libyan people without putting American boots on the ground,” Ruppersberger, a continued. “The United States and the international community are proud to have helped the Libyan people get to this momentous day.”