The United Nations (UN) has reiterated its support for inclusive and credible presidential and parliamentary elections in Libya.
UN Secretary General, António Guterres, in a video message to the Paris Conference on Libya, said that the ‘elections are an essential next step on the road to peace and stability’.
The elections are envisaged as a key moment in a UN-backed peace process to end a decade of violence that has undermined Mediterranean stability since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising against Muammar Gaddafi.
The UN Security Council resolution 2570 reaffirmed the decision to hold national presidential and parliamentary elections on 24 December 2021 as set out in the roadmap of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF) in Tunis in November 2020.
‘I strongly urge Libyans to come together in a spirit of national unity, to overcome remaining differences, and forge a consensus on the legal framework for the elections in consultation with all relevant national institutions, adhering to their rules and procedures’, Guterres said.
‘The majority of Libyans support holding these elections. Nearly three million people have registered to vote so far.
‘Their aspirations and determination to participate in free and fair elections must be met. Women and young people must be able to participate equally and meaningfully in the electoral process, both as voters and candidates’.
Security situation in Libya has further deteriorated as armed groups continue to clash in Tripoli and Benghazi.
Meanwhile, world powers have suggested they will push for sanctions against anyone who disrupts Libya’s electoral process and political transition.
Source: UN
Photo source: UNDP
