The United Nations has formed a committee of Libyan experts to address issues related to stalled national elections in Libya. This comes after the failed elections in December 2021 due to disputes over candidate eligibility. The committee’s objective is to facilitate a swift resolution and establish a timeline for the electoral process, despite concerns regarding the legitimacy of political entities and skepticism among the Libyan populace.
The United Nations (UN) has initiated a new effort to resolve the longstanding electoral crisis in Libya by convening a committee of Libyan experts. This initiative aims to address the contentious issues that have delayed national elections, particularly following the collapse of the December 2021 election due to disputes regarding candidate eligibility. Stephanie Koury, the acting head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), outlined that this committee will explore options to facilitate elections as swiftly as possible, including establishing guarantees and a definitive timeframe.
Since the installation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah under UN auspices in 2021, the situation has deteriorated, as the existing parliament no longer recognizes its legitimacy. Al-Dbeibah has expressed his determination not to relinquish power until national elections are undertaken. The Libyan landscape has been marred by instability since the 2011 NATO-supported uprising, leading to a split between governing factions in the east and west.
Despite the calls for elections from key political figures, there remains a pervasive skepticism among Libyans regarding the authentic intentions of these leaders, as many fear potential losses of authority. UNSMIL is committed not just to facilitating elections but also to assisting in unifying military and security institutions and promoting national reconciliation efforts. Koury emphasized the mission’s dual focus on political progress and military consolidation to ensure a more stable Libya in the future.
Libya has faced ongoing conflict and political instability since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, which has given rise to rival governments and factions vying for control. After more than a decade of turmoil, the international community, led by the UN, has aimed to unify the country and facilitate national elections as a means to restore order and democratic governance. The attempt to hold elections in December 2021 fell apart, largely due to disputes over eligibility, highlighting the complexities of reaching consensus among divided factions in Libya. The ongoing efforts by UNSMIL reflect the international commitment to address the political impasse and support a democratic transition despite widespread skepticism among the populace regarding their leaders’ dedication to genuine electoral reform.
In summary, the UN’s recent undertaking to assemble a committee of Libyan experts represents a critical step towards resolving the electoral stalemate in Libya. With national elections stalled since December 2021 due to eligibility disputes, the initiative aims to clarify electoral laws and expedite the election process. The ongoing challenges that Libya faces, including issues of legitimacy and skepticism towards its leaders, underscore the importance of this mission. Ultimately, the prospects of national reconciliation and stability hinge upon the successful implementation of these electoral processes.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
