On Thursday, the UN Special Adviser on Libya, Stephanie Williams commended the members of the joint Libyan Parliament and High Council of State (HCS) Committee for continuing to work toward a consensual constitutional framework. This is to take Libya to general elections as soon as possible.
In a briefing statement, Williams urged them to “fulfil their duty to the Libyan people, who have demonstrated a desire for an election by registering to vote by the millions.” She also expressed confidence that the efforts of the joint committee would put Libya on the path to stability, security, and development.
The interlocutors had postponed the discussion on these points to this session. They had agreed on an estimated 70% of the constitutional laws during the last round on 20 May in Cairo.
The UN-brokered negotiations are being held amid concerted international pressure on the two chambers to put their disputes aside, and agree on the election’s legal basis.
The United Nations Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) put forward its initiative to resolve the crisis, and debate on the constitutional basis. This is after incumbent Prime Minister, Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba refused to hand over power to rival Fathi Bashagha, who was appointed by the Parliament in early March.
The mission also expressed its deep concern over the recent clashes, which endangered the lives of civilians. As well as the mobilization by armed groups from the areas surrounding Tripoli.
It urged Libya’s security and political parties to exercise the utmost restraint, display the qualities of responsible leadership, and resolve all disputes through dialogue.
Recently, The UN Panel of Experts on Libya submitted a report to the Security Council noting that the Turkish government has continued its practice of deploying Syrian fighters to Libya, according to Nordic Monitor.