(Updated) Ellison: Libya 'Great Win For Democracy'

Updated: Monday, Aug. 22, 2011 at Noon

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison issued this statement about Libya Monday morning:

"The news last night was a great win for democracy and I am encouraged that the conflict in Libya may be coming to an end.

"The Transitional National Council (TNC) conducted themselves well in the last hours of Colonel Gaddafi's 42-year rule over Libya. The TNC’s reminder to all rebel fighters to treat captured prisoners, including Gadaffi's sons, with dignity and respect was also heartening and is wise advice.  What's needed now is an end to the violence and the beginning of political consolidation. As the country heals and transitions to democracy all Libyans should know that they have a partner in the United States."

First Post: After six months of civil war in Libya, Fox News reported that rebel forces who wish to dispose Libya's ruler Muammar Gadhafi met little resistance as they overran a major military base Sunday that defends the capitol of Tripoli.

According to the Fox News article, Associated Press reporters with the rebels said they reached the Tripoli suburb of Janzour around nightfall Sunday, where they were greeted by civilians lining the streets and waving rebel flags. There are also reports that Gadhafi's son, Saif al Islam Gadhafi, was captured by rebel forces and a Politco article also reported that a rebel leader reportedly said a unit in charge of protecting Gadhafi surrendered and joined the rebels.

While President Barack Obama told reporters Sunday night that the U.S. would wait for confirmation of what exactly has happened before he made a statement, Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) took to Twitter once again declaring that rebel forces have triumphed.

"[Gadhafi's] 4 decade rule over Libya has ended! [Gadhafi's] compound was surrounded; Saif al-Islam captured; presidential guard quit ...

"Great wishes of hope for people of Libya. You won the civil war; all the best on winning the peace! Bless Libya's patriots."

Monday reports indicated that Libyan rebels have tightened their grip on Tripoli, while Gadhafi remains in hiding.