The UN has launched a technical committee of Libyan experts to address electoral issues and facilitate national elections, following the failed election in December 2021. Acting head Stephanie Koury emphasized the urgency to resolve outstanding laws and provide guarantees for elections. Amid prolonged conflict and skepticism from the public, the UN seeks to help restore legitimacy and unity in Libya’s governance.
The United Nations has initiated a new effort to address the ongoing electoral impasse in Libya by convening a technical committee comprised of local experts. This action aims to tackle the contentious issues that have hindered the political process for over a decade, particularly the failure of elections that were scheduled for December 2021. The acting head of the UN mission in Libya, Stephanie Koury, emphasized the need for this committee to explore solutions related to electoral laws and to propose a timeline for achieving elections.
Koury highlighted the urgency of this matter, stating that the committee would seek to finalize outstanding electoral laws and outline guarantees and assurances to facilitate elections as swiftly as possible. The Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, which was established through a UN-supported process, faces challenges as the legislature no longer recognizes its authority. Al-Dbeibah has expressed his commitment to not relinquishing his position without a new electoral process.
Libya has experienced ongoing strife since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011, leading to a division between eastern and western regions with competing administrations. Although key political figures in Libya have called for new elections, there exists skepticism among the populace regarding their commitment, as many fear that elections could eliminate their current holds on power. In addition to addressing electoral issues, Koury noted that the UN mission remains dedicated to promoting national reconciliation and unifying military and security institutions in collaboration with various partners.
The political landscape in Libya has been fraught with challenges since the 2011 uprising that overthrew the former regime. The country has been embroiled in civil conflict, with various factions vying for control and governance, resulting in a stalemate regarding national unity and elections. The scheduled elections in December 2021 failed primarily due to disputes about candidate eligibility, preventing a resolution to the political impasse and prolonging uncertainty within the nation. The UN has been actively involved in attempting to broker peace and establish a functional government. The calls for elections come amid widespread disillusionment among Libyans, who doubt the sincerity of political leaders regarding their intentions to hold fair and free elections, further complicating the situation. The UN’s renewed engagement seeks to facilitate a pathway toward democratic governance through expert collaboration and democratic frameworks.
In summary, the United Nations’ latest initiative to form a technical committee of Libyan experts illustrates a significant step toward resolving the electoral deadlock that has plagued Libya for years. By addressing vital issues related to electoral laws and proposing timelines for elections, the UN aims to restore legitimacy and governance in Libya. However, overcoming deep skepticism within the populace regarding the intentions of political leaders will remain a significant challenge as the country seeks to unify and pave the way for long awaiting national elections.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
