Libya’s eastern parliament has passed a national reconciliation and transitional justice law aimed at unifying the country after years of factional conflict. However, challenges in implementation remain due to ongoing divisions following the civil war. The U.N. has emphasized the need for an inclusive reconciliation process as political disputes stall progress towards elections.
Libya’s eastern parliament, the House of Representatives (HoR), has officially adopted a national reconciliation and transitional justice law. This decision was made during a session held in Benghazi, aimed at fostering unity after a decade marked by factional conflict. Three lawmakers confirmed the passage of this legislation to Reuters, with a spokesperson announcing that it was approved by a majority present at the meeting.
While the law marks a significant step toward healing the nation, its implementation may be complicated due to the ongoing division in Libya, which has persisted since the 2014 civil war. The conflict led to the emergence of two competing administrations in the east and west, following the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Abdulmenam Alorafi, a House member, expressed optimism about the law’s effectiveness across the country, hoping it would not encounter obstacles.
The United Nations has consistently emphasized the need for a comprehensive, rights-centered approach to transitional justice and reconciliation in Libya. However, the political landscape remains fractured as attempts to resolve the institutional split and ongoing conflicts have been stalled since the failed electoral process in December 2021.
Currently, the Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah and established through U.N. intervention in 2021, does not have the parliament’s acknowledgment of its legitimacy. Al-Dbeibah has insisted that he will not relinquish his position until a new government is elected.
Furthermore, Libya faces a unique situation with two legislative bodies vying for power: the HoR and the High Council of State in Tripoli. The latter was formed under a 2015 political agreement and continues to influence governance. The Tripoli-based Presidential Council has been attempting to facilitate a reconciliation process; however, it struggles to unite diverse factions due to persistent disagreements.
The approval of the transitional justice law by Libya’s eastern parliament signals progress towards reconciliation in a country long affected by civil strife. Despite optimistic projections for national unification, significant challenges in implementation remain due to ongoing political divisions and rival administrations. The situation demands continued international support and dialogue to pave the way for lasting peace and stability in Libya.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
