Libya: Carnival atmosphere in Tripoli's Martyrs Square

Throngs of flag waving Libyans flocked to Martyrs Square on Tuesday the focal point of new Libyas freedom.People were celebrating after living four decades under the authoritarian regime of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. The National Transitional Council (NTC) fighters have toppled Gaddafi from power, ushering in a new era in Libyas modern history.There was a carnival atmosphere in the central Tripoli square as hundreds of people gathered to sing, bang drums and take photographs to record the occasion. Stalls sold candyfloss and drinks as well as merchandise, including the new Libyan flag.One anti-Gaddafi fighter, sat on top of his rocket launcher, said people came all day to have their picture taken with the freedom fighters, who they regarded as heroes. He also said it was important people were having their photographs taken with the weapons because they were used against them by Gaddafis fighters.Khalifay, who was taking a photograph of his son stood at the trigger on an anti-aircraft gun, and said his children asked to visit Martyrs Square.NTC fighters have been engaged in a six month bloody war against fighters loyal to the former leader. With air support from NATO they took control of Tripoli in late August and are closing in on the three final towns of Bani Walid, Sirte and Sabha who are still loyal to Gaddafi.