Political rivalry between the Libyan governments of Tobruk and Tripilo is believed to be the reason which led to the Swieqi stabbing of a 25-year-old Libyan man.

The stabbing happened yesterday in a Swieqi residence.

The victim was left in critical condition but is no longer in danger of dying.

Two Libyans involved in the fight were denied bail today after denying involvement in the stabbing.

Zouhir Elfezqa, 31, who lives in Swieqi, was this morning arraigned under arrest and charged with attempted murder and inflicting grievous injuries to  Wadea Al Maghrgi.

Another Libyan man,  21-year-old Mohammed Abdul Hafid Abukem, also from Swieqi, was separately charge, accused of attempting to inflict grievous injuries to  Mr Elfezqa, slightly injuring him, holding him against his will and carrying a knife without a permit.

Police inspectors James Grech and Elton Taliana prosecuted.

Magistrate Neville Camilleri presided.