Gaddafi appears on state TV

Gaddafi has ruled Libya since 1969, making him the longest-serving leader in Africa and the Arab world [GALLO/GETTY]

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi appeared on state television on Tuesday and signalled his defiance over a mounting a revolt against his 41-year rule.

"I am in Tripoli and not in Venezuela," he said

Earlier, state TV said Gaddafi will refute "malicious rumours that have been broadcast".
Gaddafi has came under increasing pressure to give up power on Monday when anti-government protests against his 41-year rule struck the capital Tripoli after days of violence in the east.
Gaddafi's son Saif al-Islam Gaddafi appeared on national television on Sunday night, saying the army would enforce security at any price to put down the revolt. He also promised reform and wage rises.
"We will keep fighting until the last man standing, even to the last woman standing," he said.
 But people in Tripoli expressed anger at the speech.
A Libyan woman who gave her name as Salma, said: "He threatened the Libyan people with killing, hunger and burning. He did not offer mercy for the souls of the martyrs."
Support for Gaddafi, who seized power in 1969, among Libya's desert tribes was also waning.

The leader of the Al-Zuwayya tribe in the east threatened to cut oil exports unless authorities halted "oppression of protesters".