Partner Tom McDonald, Head of Baker Hostetler’s Government Policy Practice Group and member of the firmwide Policy Committee, the firm’s governing body, was interviewed by BBC WorldNews on August 22, 2011, about the latest developments in Libya, particularly rebel leadership and their chances for unification. McDonald is also a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe under President Clinton.
In the interview, McDonald said there is uncertainty regarding the rebel takeover of the Libyan government, but feels positive that they are on the path to order and stability. He feels that with the hopefully solid leadership of Mustafa Abdul Jalil, Libya’s various tribes and ethnic groups will have more success with unification than Iraq has shown. He did caution that there is still much work to be done, and that Europe and the United States will have to assist in the country’s transition to a new government.
The interviewer also suggested that a broad range of Libyan disparate groups may be seeking revenge as has been demonstrated in Iraq. While McDonald acknowledged this is a valid concern, he feels that the international community, particularly NATO, should, within limits, assist in mediating between parties and encourage peace. McDonald also mentioned that the rebels’ effectiveness in the last few weeks is a hopeful sign that they can bring stability to the country.
When asked about Gaddafi’s conflicting legacy in sub-Saharan Africa and if the rebels will extend a hand of friendship there, McDonald responded by saying that it’s a great day for the African Union. He believes the rebels will embrace the other African nations as those nations will hopefully embrace the rebels.
Video of McDonald Interview