Libyan liberation likely to be declared on Sunday

The liberation of the country is likely to be marred by questions raised worldwide about the circumstances of Qadhafi's violent killing. Recorded images suggest was found alive and taunted before being shot.

A Libyan man gestures front of a caricature of former Libyan leader Muammar Qadhafi. Photo: AP

A military spokesman says Libya’s transitional government will declare liberation on Sunday after months of bloodshed that culminated in the death of long-time leader Muammar Qadhafi.

Officials from the governing National Transitional Council had said the announcement would be made on Saturday in the eastern city of Benghazi, the revolution’s birthplace.

But spokesman Abdel-Rahman Busin says preparations are under way for a Sunday ceremony. He didn't give an explanation for the delay. The declaration will allow Libya’s new rulers to move forward with efforts to transform the oil-rich nation into a democracy.

Libyan authorities are facing questions about how Qadhafi was killed after images emerged showing he was found alive and taunted and beaten by his captors.