Politics & Government

Dutch on Gaddafi: 'Beginning of the End'

The Maryland congressman issued a statement on the weekend revolt in Libya.

Libyan rebels have taken over the Tripoli, effectively ending the 42-year reign of dictator Moammar Qaddafi, according to this Huffington Post article. 

You can follow live updates here

As the world looks on yet another oppressive leader being ousted from power, Maryland Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger issued the following the statement: 

Find out what's happening in Odenton-Severnfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

“This is the beginning of the end for Libyan dictator Moammar Gaddafi. It is becoming more apparent the Gaddafi regime is falling apart as rebels control more of the country, including a majority of Tripoli," Ruppersberger said.

The congressman who represents Severn and other Anne Arundel towns never minced words about his feelings on Gaddafi. 

Find out what's happening in Odenton-Severnfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"From the very beginning, I said Gaddafi was a ruthless terrorist with no respect for human life who could strike again," he wrote.   

"Our actions in Libya protected America’s national security as well as security worldwide. The UN-led mission was supported by an unprecedented coalition of countries, including the Arab League and European allies, and prevented the widespread massacre of thousands of innocent Libyan people without putting American boots on the ground."    

Despite the tremendous step forward Monday, Ruppersberger, the ranking member on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a warning regarding radical extremist.

"As we move forward, the international community must ensure a peaceful transition where the will of the Libyan people is heard. We must also ensure radical extremist groups do not take control of the country. Libya has a large stockpile of chemical weapons and explosives that must not fall into the wrong hands.”     

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.