Libya's U.N. backed government moves to tackle power cuts in key test

Libyan forces allied with the U.N.-backed government takes a break at the frontline in the West part of Sirte, Libya, July 19, 2016. REUTERS/Goran Tomasevic

TRIPOLI (Reuters) - Libya's U.N.-backed government is moving to tackle chronic power outages in a key test of the Tripoli-based administration's ability to take executive control and win support by improving living conditions.

Persistent power cuts lengthened during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan that ended in early July, making life even more difficult for residents facing searing summer heat, cash shortages that delay salaries and continued lawlessness.