The British Legal Advisor to the United Nations, Chanaka Wickremasinghe stressed the need for the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya without delay.
During a briefing to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Security Council on Libya on Wednesday, Chanka affirmed the UK’s support for Prosecutor, Karim Khan in carrying out his important duties, welcoming his report, and his intention to visit Libya early next year.
“I would like to reaffirm the UK’s full support for the Libyan led, Libyan owned process that has got us to this stage,” Chanka said.
He stressed that Libya’s elections should be free, fair, and transparent, and allow for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and youth.
The UK strongly urged all Libyan actors to respect the electoral calendar, refrain from actions that would disrupt the electoral process, and resolve any disputes through legitimate pathways.
“Actions that undermine this process only risk a return to conflict and entrenched divisions within Libya. We should not hesitate to use all the tools available, including sanctions, against those who attempt to undermine the process,” he stressed.
“It is crucial that there is a smooth, peaceful transfer of power following elections in Libya,” the British official said. As well as calling on candidates for the Presidential elections to work together in good faith before, during, and after the elections to avoid instability.
He welcomed the comprehensive Action Plan agreed upon by the 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC), for the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries. This includes the deployment of UN ceasefire monitors to support the Libyan ceasefire.
“The onus is now on international actors to deliver on the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries without delay. The UK stands ready to work with Libya and our international partners to build a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for the Libyan people,” he concluded.