BENGHAZI  (AFP) – National Transitional Council vice chairman Abdel Hafiz Ghoga on Sunday announced Libya “liberated”, at a huge rally in the eastern city of Benghazi, where the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi was launched eight months ago.

“Declaration of Liberation. Raise your head high. You are a free Libyan,” he said.

Tens of thousands of voices echoed him chanting, “You are a free Libyan.”

“The libyan people confirm their respect for international law… (their determination to respect) mutual interest and cooperation with all countries, particularly Libya’s neighbours,” Ghoga said.

“We are entering a new phase, one which asks more responsibility from all of us. May long live the revolution. May long live Libya.”