Hanna Serwaa Tetteh has been appointed as the new UN envoy to Libya, vowing to pursue peace and stability. Her role involves overcoming significant challenges due to the nation’s political divisions and fostering collaboration among Libyan factions and international partners. Tetteh aims to support inclusive national elections, previously postponed since 2021.
The new United Nations envoy to Libya, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, expressed her commitment to achieving peace and stability in the divided country, as reported by the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Taking office in Tripoli, Tetteh acknowledged that her mandate would be challenging and emphasized the importance of collaboration among all parties involved.
Libya continues to navigate the aftermath of the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that removed long-time leader Muammar Qaddafi. The nation remains divided, with a UN-recognized government in Tripoli and an opposing authority in the east led by military leader Khalifa Haftar.
Tetteh’s appointment as the Special Representative and head of UNSMIL was made by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres last month, marking her as the tenth person to fill this role since 2011. She succeeded Abdoulaye Bathily, who resigned in April of the previous year.
With previous experience as the UN Special Representative for the Horn of Africa in 2022, Tetteh aims to cultivate a path toward a solution that is both Libyan-led and owned. She plans to collaborate with regional and international stakeholders to maintain national unity and territorial integrity.
Despite plans for presidential and parliamentary elections in December 2021, these were postponed indefinitely due to ongoing disputes among rival factions. Tetteh highlighted that UNSMIL will work diligently to support Libyan institutions in conducting inclusive elections and to develop a national vision that addresses the country’s enduring challenges.
In summary, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh’s appointment as the new UN envoy to Libya comes with an ambitious agenda aimed at fostering peace and stability. With ongoing divisions within the country, her role is crucial in unifying efforts among Libyans and international bodies to facilitate elections and address long-standing challenges. Tetteh’s commitment to a Libyan-led solution is pivotal given the tumultuous political landscape.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
