The United Nations has initiated efforts to resolve the electoral impasse in Libya by establishing a technical committee of experts. This committee will address electoral law disputes and work towards conducting national elections. Current political instability stems from the failed December 2021 elections and the lack of recognition for Prime Minister Al-Dbeibah’s government by parliament.
The United Nations has commenced a new initiative to address the electoral stalemate in Libya by assembling a technical committee comprised of experts in the field. This decision was announced by the acting head of the UN mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Stephanie Koury, during a video statement shared on Sunday. The committee is tasked with resolving critical issues related to the electoral laws that have hindered Libya from conducting national elections for over a decade, particularly following the failed elections scheduled for December 2021 due to disputes regarding candidate qualifications.
Koury emphasized that the committee is approaching its mission with a clear objective: to explore viable pathways for conducting elections promptly. This includes the establishment of guarantees, assurances, and a defined timetable for the electoral process. The situation in Libya has been complicated since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in 2021 under Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, which the parliament currently does not recognize as legitimate. Al-Dbeibah has firmly stated his intention to remain in power until national elections are realized.
Since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011, Libya has experienced prolonged conflict, leading to a division between eastern and western factions, each governed by rival administrations. Despite calls from major political figures for elections, there is widespread skepticism among the Libyan populace regarding the true intentions of these leaders, questioning whether they genuinely desire a vote that could remove them from their current positions of authority.
In her statement, Koury reiterated UNSMIL’s commitment to facilitating the unification of military and security institutions in Libya while also working alongside partners to promote national reconciliation. Such efforts are essential for stabilizing Libya and ensuring the country’s return to a democratic process.
Libya has been engulfed in conflict since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, resulting in a fragmented political landscape characterized by power struggles between competing administrations. A UN-backed Government of National Unity was established in 2021, yet it faces legitimacy challenges from the parliament and other political entities. The failure to hold elections in December 2021 due to disputes over candidates has exacerbated this political impasse, leading to calls for a new electoral framework that can address existing concerns within a divided society.
In summary, the UN’s formation of a technical committee aims to navigate the electoral challenges facing Libya and provide a roadmap for national elections. With conflicting parties remaining at odds and substantial public skepticism about the political will for elections, achieving a unified approach to governance and electoral laws will be critical. The international community’s support remains vital in fostering an environment conducive to reconciliation and stability within Libya.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
