Libya's transitional leader says Islamic Sharia law will be the basis for the country's new government.

Mustafa Abdul Jalil, chairman of the National Transitional Council, declared Libya a liberated nation on Sunday, three days after the death of former dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

Jalil made his remarks in a ceremony in Benghazi marking the official end of Gadhafi's 42-year reign.

Benghazi became the headquarters of the anti-government forces after defeating Gadhafi's forces in mid-February.

Jalil called on Libyans to show patience and tolerance as the transitional government begins rebuilding the country after eight months of civil war.

Under Libya's new government, he promised, all legislation will be based on Sharia law, and any laws that contradict Sharia will be nullified.

In addition, the country's banking system will also be run according to Islamic principles, he said.

Jalil also encouraged anti-government protesters in Syria and Yemen to carry on until they "achieve their hopes."

Sharia law will likely make it more difficult for Christians in the new Libya.