By Ukumbi Afrika 
Monday, 10th August 2026
Tripoli— Libya's Central Bank Governor Naji Issa has submitted his resignation to the country's two rival legislative chambers, according to documents seen by Reuters on Monday.
Issa confirmed the authenticity of the resignation letters, dated August 9, but declined to disclose the reasons behind his decision, citing their sensitivity.
«“I apologize for not being able to continue in my duties as Governor of the Central Bank of Libya, without stating the reasons, due to their sensitivity, ” the letters said.»
The resignation comes at a sensitive time for Libya, where competing political authorities in the east and west continue to struggle over control of state institutions and economic resources.
Call For Issa To Remain
Mohamed Takala, head of Libya's western-based High Council of State, called on Issa to remain in office temporarily to help preserve financial, economic and political stability.
Takala said Issa should remain until the resignation request is reviewed and decided upon in accordance with Libya's constitutional and legal procedures.
The eastern-based House of Representatives has not yet responded to Issa's resignation request.
Central Bank At The Heart Of Libya's Political Divide
Issa became governor of the Central Bank of Libya in 2024 after the rival legislative chambers agreed on his appointment in an effort to resolve a dispute over control of the institution.
The dispute had led to the removal of former governor Sadiq al-Kabir after western factions moved to replace him with a rival board.
The confrontation triggered a major economic crisis, with eastern factions shutting down oil production. Libya's crude output and exports fell sharply during the standoff.
The Central Bank plays a crucial role in Libya's economy, particularly in managing state revenues and foreign currency resources generated largely through the country's oil sector.
Issa's resignation could reopen questions over the leadership and independence of Libya's central banking system at a time when the country remains politically divided.
Any leadership transition at the CBL could also have implications for Libya's oil revenues, public spending, foreign-exchange management and broader economic stability.
Libya has remained divided between rival authorities in the east and west since 2014, years after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ended Muammar Gaddafi's rule.
SOURCE: Reuters
Reporting: Ahmed Elumami & Hani Amara
Writing: Ahmed Elumami & Yasmine Ghania
Editing: William Maclean