The chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC), Farhat Bengdara, has stepped down from his position, citing health-related issues, the state-owned oil giant announced on Thursday.
Masoud Sulaiman has been appointed as acting chairman pending the formation of a new board of directors.
The Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, accepted Bengdara’s resignation and confirmed Sulaiman’s interim leadership until the next cabinet meeting.
Bengdara, who took over the NOC leadership in July 2022 after the dismissal of long-serving chief Mustafa Sanallah, reportedly submitted his resignation three times within a year. A source from Bengdara’s office revealed that he requires urgent back surgery, which will demand an extended recovery period.
“The surgery cannot be postponed any longer, and Mr. Bengdara’s health must come first,” the source told Reuters.
The NOC, which oversees Libya’s vital oil and gas production, plays a central role in the country’s economy.
As the third-largest oil producer in North Africa and a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Libya’s oil output is crucial for global energy markets. However, production has been repeatedly disrupted by armed groups seeking political leverage or financial concessions.
However, recurrent blockades of oil facilities have hindered consistent production, adding pressure to the country’s fragile economy.
Commenting on the leadership change, energy analyst Khaled El-Masri noted, “Stability in the NOC is critical. Bengdara’s resignation raises concerns about continuity, especially at a time when Libya needs steady oil production to support its recovery.”
