Libya’s presidential and parliamentary elections have been postponed, with a new date expected within 30 days due to electoral legislative issues. UN envoy Stephanie Williams expressed the urgency of holding inclusive elections while underscoring the importance of respecting the will of voters. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for appropriate conditions for a democratic transition. Williams reported positive developments and a shift from conflict to dialogue among Libyans.
On Thursday, during a visit aimed at facilitating political, security, and economic dialogues in Libya, UN envoy Stephanie Williams announced the postponement of the presidential and parliamentary elections. She emphasized the Libyan people’s strong desire to vote and end the ongoing transitional period through inclusive elections. Williams stated that these elections must contribute positively to Libya’s future rather than exacerbate existing problems.
The High National Elections Commission disclosed its inability to hold the elections as originally scheduled for December 24. Despite being technically ready, the commission cited deficiencies in electoral legislation and challenges related to candidate eligibility. As a result, they requested the House of Representatives to establish a new election date within 30 days and implement necessary measures to facilitate the electoral process.
Williams expressed her readiness to mediate and collaborate with Libyan institutions to address existing challenges. She urged concerned parties to respect the will of the 2.8 million registered voters and stressed that obstacles in the electoral process should not compromise the stability achieved in Libya over the past 15 months. Williams called for a commitment to inclusive, fair, and credible elections that all parties can accept.
In a related statement, UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the importance of fulfilling the people’s will and conducting elections under appropriate conditions to ensure a smooth political transition. Guterres affirmed Williams’s continued support for a Libyan-led process to tackle outstanding challenges and expedite elections.
Beyond her electoral focus, Williams spearheaded mediation efforts with diverse groups across Libya, noting significant advancements since the 2020 ceasefire agreement and the subsequent Political Dialogue Forum Roadmap. She expressed satisfaction at observing a shift from conflict towards peaceful dialogue, particularly highlighting the successful reopening of the coastal road between Misrata and Sirte by the 5+5 Joint Military Commission, consisting of military representatives from conflicting sides.
Williams recounted stories of Libyans gradually restoring a sense of normalcy and reconnecting with estranged family members, facilitated by the ceasefire and improved travel conditions. She noted that many who had previously been in armed conflict were now coming together, fostering hope for a more unified future in Libya.
The Libyan elections have been postponed due to legislative deficiencies and challenges with candidates’ eligibility. UN envoy Stephanie Williams emphasizes the importance of these elections in achieving stability and respecting the will of the voters. The UN chief, António Guterres, reinforces the need for conditions that support a democratic transition. Williams also highlights positive changes since the ceasefire and the move towards peaceful dialogue among Libyans, indicating progress in the country’s recovery efforts.
Original Source: news.un.org
