UN Envoy: Libyan leaders must avoid any escalation that escalation that threatens the country's unity


While differences are still raging between politicians in Libya, amid the division of power between two governments, one in Tripoli headed by Abd al-Hamid al-Dabaiba, and the other in Sirte headed by Fathi Bashagha, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Libya, Abdullah Batili, appealed to all Libyans of various orientations. To make 2023 the beginning of a new era for the country, including by holding free and fair elections.

In a statement today, Friday, on the occasion of the seventy-first anniversary of Libya's independence, he urged Libyan leaders to be a driving force for resolving the protracted Libyan crisis, by agreeing on a solution based on national consensus, and avoiding any escalatory actions that would threaten the already fragile unity and stability of Libya.

"Libyans' patience has run out"

He added, "The patience of the Libyan people is running out. The time has come to uphold the interest of the country and the people, including the 2.8 million Libyans who registered to vote."

He also said, "Libyan leaders must put an end to transitional phases, prepare the country for elections, and respect the right of Libyans to strive for a better future."

He explained that "the United Nations will spare no effort in working with all parties, comprehensively, constructively and resolutely at the same time, to support the Libyan parties in order to prevent deepening divisions and wasting more time."

Elections stumble

It is noteworthy that the Libyan elections have stalled since last December (2021) until now, due to the lack of agreement between the political parties on the constitutional basis for this electoral process, as a result of disagreements over the conditions for running for president.

While the Libyan West camp rejects the candidacy of the military and those with dual nationalities, the East camp demands an opportunity for all, in addition to the existence of two governments fighting for power.

To date, there are no indications of the possibility of reaching a strong agreement in the short term, allowing for parliamentary and presidential elections to end the transitional phase, lead the country to stability, and open the door to the unification of institutions, despite all vigorous international endeavors, especially after the emergence of indications of the possibility of an outbreak. Armed conflict in the country, with the recording of military movements and parades on both sides, during the last period.