Gaddafi's ideology?
Gaddafi was neither left-wing nor right-wing. Gaddafi formed his own ideology called the “Third International Theory” (highly recommend you read it). It was essentially a unique mix of socialism, self-reliance, Pan-African unity & Islamic leftism.
Gaddafi was a critic of democracy, but not for the reason that you might think. He believed that typical Western style democracy was essentially a never-ending dictatorship where politicians can hold power for decades through flawed party politics, minority governments & massive campaign spending. And as a result, they immediately become tools for the establishment instead of representatives of the people. He also criticized “Parliamentarianism” as a failed system where parties become like warring tribes who pose a threat to stability and unity. Gaddafi however, admitted that his ideology wasn’t perfect and that it would take time to transform into his actual idea of “Democracy”.
He severely criticized wage labor, capitalist markets, and private enterprises. Gaddafi argued that capitalism was slavery, and the people as a whole should be given collective control. Interestingly, once he began nationalizing many economic sectors of Libya, he didn’t purge land & business owners like the Bolsheviks. He instead re-incorporated them back into these newly nationalized industries.
Last but not least, Gaddafi was highly well versed on the Quran, Islam & Sharia law. Yet, he also believed in cracking down on the influence of the tribal Sheikhs. Gaddafi would challenge Sheikhs & scholars who opposed him on live TV. He would grill them with questions on Sharia, the Hadiths & Quranic Surahs. If they were unable to answer & or refute him, Gaddafi would shame and dismiss them instantly.
Gaddafi was a revolutionary. His real blow was his attempt to create a gold-based currency for all African states to use. A move that would’ve crippled the dollar (can’t have that happen). He certainly was a man of many flaws, but I think people should take some genuine time to learn about his interesting political ideology. Such individuals are always more complex than they seem.