UN Efforts to Resolve Libya's Electoral Stalemate

The United Nations, through its mission UNSMIL, is engaging Libyan experts to address electoral law challenges and set the stage for national elections. After a decade of conflict, Libya remains divided. The strategy seeks potential solutions for electoral disputes, emphasizing military unification and reconciliation.

The United Nations has initiated a committee of Libyan experts to tackle the issues hindering national elections, according to the acting head of the U.N. mission in Libya, Stephanie Koury, on Sunday. Stalled since 2021, the election process faltered due to candidate eligibility disputes, but the U.N. aims for resolution.

Koury stated that the committee would examine electoral laws and propose solutions to expedite elections, including guarantees and timelines. The U.N.-backed Government of National Unity, led by Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, faces challenges with parliament refusing its legitimacy amidst Libya's prolonged unrest since 2011.

Despite calls for elections from political leaders, Libyans remain skeptical of motivations behind these calls, fearing loss of authority for many in power. UNSMIL aims to aid military and security unification and work with partners towards national reconciliation, pushing for meaningful progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)