Relative calm reported in Tripoli

A state of relative calm prevailed in the Libyan capital on Thursday after a day of tensions following the arrival of Prime Minister of the recently-formed National Unity Government Fayez Sarraj to the capital by sea.

The arrival of the UN-backed government came despite threats by rival factions that it was not welcome in the capital. 

Sporadic gunfire and road blocks leading into Tripoli were reported on news of the arrival.

Mayor of Tripoli Abdel Raouf beit el Mal confirmed that clashes in the capital have stopped and roads were re-opened.

The Presidential Council was formed under a UN-mediated peace deal late last year in an effort to end the political chaos and conflict that has beset the country since the uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi five years ago.

It is supposed to replace the two rival administrations - one based in Tripoli, the other in the eastern city of Tobruk - that have been battling each other for more than a year.

Tripoli's self-declared government and armed groups that back it had in recent days warned the presidential council's unity government not to travel to Tripoli .

Seven members of the council, including Sarraj, arrived in the Libyan capital by sea and set up a temporary seat of power at a naval base. 

The officials were prevented from flying into Tripoli by the rival government. 
Source : MENA