Libya's State Property Authority Issues Official Clarification on Old Land Ownership Claims

Over 1.5 million hectares of state land affected as Libyan authorities crack down on illegal claims based on pre-1986 ownership documents

The Libyan State Property Authority (Mislahat Amlak al-Dawla), under the Libyan government, has issued a firm official clarification regarding the ongoing controversy over old land ownership claims. The Authority confirmed that claims based on pre-1986 ownership documents hold no legal standing under current Libyan law and do not grant any right to seize or dispose of state property.

Legal Framework: Law No. 7 of 1986 and Law No. 21 of 1984

The Authority explained that the legislative framework governing land ownership in Libya is clearly defined by two key pieces of legislation. Law No. 7 of 1986, which abolished private ownership of land, and Law No. 21 of 1984, concerning regulations for public benefit, together establish the legal parameters for land possession and disposal.

According to the official statement, these two laws collectively determine how land ownership and property transactions are regulated under current legislation in Libya. Any claims relying on ownership rights that were abolished under these laws are considered a clear violation of enforceable legislation.

Legal Consequences for Violators

The Authority emphasized that any actions taken based on old, abolished land ownership documents constitute an explicit violation of current laws. Such actions are classified as encroachments on state property that warrant legal accountability and prosecution.

The statement served as a warning that the State Property Authority will take all necessary legal measures against anyone found to be encroaching on state-owned properties. The crackdown falls under the broader framework of protecting public funds and preserving assets owned by the state.

New Legislation: Law No. 168 of 2025 on State Property Disposal

In a related development, the Libyan House of Representatives has approved Law No. 168 of 2025, which establishes new rules and procedures for the disposal of state private property. This law replaces the previous Law No. 144 of 2017 and will come into effect one month after its publication in the official gazette.

The new legislation, ratified by the President of the Presidential Council, aims to modernize procedures for managing and disposing of state-owned properties, creating a clearer legal framework for both citizens and government entities.

Context: Land Disputes in Post-Conflict Libya

Land ownership disputes have been a persistent challenge in Libya, particularly in the post-2011 era. The collapse of centralized state authority in several periods led to widespread encroachment on state land, with some individuals and groups claiming ownership based on pre-revolution documents.

The issue is especially acute in major urban centers like Tripoli, Benghazi, and Misrata, where valuable state land has been subject to illegal construction, sale, and development. The Authority's clarification is seen as part of a broader effort to reassert state control over public assets.

Call for Public Compliance

The State Property Authority renewed its call for all citizens to adhere to applicable laws and regulations regarding state property. The Authority stressed the importance of protecting public funds and state assets, urging anyone with questions about property status to consult official government channels rather than relying on historical documents that have no current legal validity.

Legal experts note that the clarification is particularly significant given recent attempts by some parties to use old ownership documents to claim valuable state properties. The Authority's firm stance signals a zero-tolerance approach to such practices going forward.

— Libya Press / News Desk