Libyan journalist Meftah Buzeid shot dead in Benghazi Published duration 26 May 2014

image copyright AFP image caption Meftah Buzeid last appeared on television on Sunday, discussing the latest political impasse

Prominent Libyan journalist Meftah Buzeid, known for his fierce criticism of Islamist militias, has been shot dead in the city of Benghazi.

He was the editor of the Burniq newspaper and had regularly appeared on television challenging the rise of such groups since the 2011 revolution.

Earlier this month he supported the military campaign of a renegade general to crush Islamist militias.

Benghazi has been plagued by violence since Muammar Gaddafi was ousted.

Libya has been struggling to control and disarm the numerous armed groups and militias that took part in the civil war that ended Gaddafi's 42-year rule.

image copyright Reuters image caption There have been frequent clashes in Benghazi involving Islamist militias

Benghazi was the cradle of the uprising but has since been a focal point for attacks on public institutions, army and police personnel.

In August 2013, a TV presenter was killed in Benghazi and there have since been several failed assassination attempts of other journalists, the BBC's Rana Jawad in the capital, Tripoli, says.

Elsewhere in the country, journalists are often kidnapped by various armed groups and released days later, our reporter adds.

's assault against militant groups in Benghazi on 16 May has led to new concerns over Libya's future.

Parliamentary elections are due to be held next month.

Our correspondent says Mr Buzeid last appeared on television on Sunday night, discussing this latest political impasse.