On Tuesday, the Head of Libya’s High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Emad Al-Sayeh met with the British Ambassador to Libya, Caroline Hurndall. They discussed the latest developments in the electoral processes planned for this year.
During their meeting, they discussed the commission’s preparations, and level of readiness to implement the elections. They reviewed what support and expertise can be provided, in the field of managing and implementing elections.
The meeting also dealt with ways to support proposals and endeavours that ensure their success, in accordance with international standards.
HNEC indicated that Hurndall’s visit comes as part of the international community’s support for the electoral process in Libya.
The Ambassador affirmed her continued support for HNEC’s efforts to achieve free and credible elections, that reflect the will of the Libyan people. As well as appreciating the commission’s efforts and level of preparedness.
Notably, the UN Envoy and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Abdoulaye Bathily held talks with the Head of the Libyan Presidential Council, Mohamed Al-Mnifi. They discussed an internationally-coordinated exit of mercenaries and foreign forces from Libya.
Bathily gave a full briefing on his recent visits to Sudan, Niger, and Chad. In addition to his meetings with a number of local parties, and the 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC) members.
He praised Al-Mnifi’s support for holding elections before the end of 2023, saying that the Presidential Council is a key partner in the United Nations’ plan to organize elections.
Bathily added that Sudanese and Chadian officials affirmed their commitment to “pursue cooperation and support for a coordinated withdrawal of all mercenaries and foreign forces, and their reintegration into regular forces.” He called for UN support to enhance border security between Sudan, Chad, and Libya.
He affirmed that the foreign presence in Libya “poses a critical risk to peace and stability in the country and the region. We need to work with our partners to address this challenge without negatively impacting Libya’s neighbouring countries.”
