Libya’s parliament says it will ignore a Supreme Court ruling that nullifies the elected body, intensifying the power struggle between Islamists and nationalists in a country plunging into strife and violence.  The internationally recognized legislature said it was elected by the people in “free and credible” polls and therefore would not disband.

“The House of Representatives rejects the verdict under these conditions and says it is still functioning, as is the government,” said Libyan lawmaker Adam Abu Sakhra.

Earlier, the Supreme Court shocked the nation by acting on a complaint brought by a fellow Islamist, invalidating the constitutional amendment that led to the 25 June election and effectively nullifies all decisions that result from the June poll.  Oh, and the decision cannot be appealed. 

That brought a round of celebratory gunfire in the streets – Most of the capital Tripoli and the second largest city Benghazi are under the control of lawless Islamist militias.

Bunk, said Parliament.  Lawmakers said the Supreme Court decision is invalid because it comes “under the threat of arms”.  They took refuge in the remote eastern town of Tobruk, along with the internationally recognized government of Prime Minister Abdullah al-Thani.