Libyans’ optimism about the possibility of holding Parliamentary and Presidential elections this year has dwindled. This is primarily due to the re-ignition of fierce debates regarding the conflicting stances of various factions, and the impact of regional and international balances on the local situation.
Sources revealed that the proposals by the Libyan Parliament and the High Council of State (HCS), to form a caretaker government to oversee the elections have not found favour with the Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Abdoulaye Bathily. As well as several western capitals, most notably Washington.
The sources further detailed obvious disagreements over issues such as the continuous presence of foreign forces and mercenaries, the unification of the military establishment, and national reconciliation.
It appears that UNSMIL has abandoned its previous insistence on organizing elections before the end of the current year. Instead, leaving the decision to internal factions who are reluctant to relinquish power, and steer the country out of its transitional phase.
MP Abdel Moneim Al-Arifi, stated that Bathily’s latest briefing before the Security Council “underlines his lack of desire to restructure the government, following his affirmation that this would only add to the controversial issues surrounding the electoral laws.”
Observers suggest that one of the most apparent signs of the trend towards delaying the electoral process yet again is that UNSMIL has not formally adopted the outcomes of the 6+6 Joint Committee.
Additionally, major factions have advocated for modifying these outcomes, to align with their individual interests.
Libya has been experiencing political instability and conflict since the overthrow of long-term ruler, Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. This has resulted in a power vacuum and civil war, with various political factions, militias, and external actors vying for control.
The current situation revolves around efforts to bring about peace, stability, and a unified government through a political process, which includes elections.
UNSMIL is a key player in facilitating these efforts. The mission is involved in mediating between the different factions, promoting political dialogue, and supporting preparations for elections.
However, several obstacles remain. These include disagreements over the structure of a new government, the legal framework for elections, the presence of foreign forces and mercenaries, the unification of military institutions, and broader issues of national reconciliation.
These issues have led to repeated delays in the electoral process, contributing to the current uncertainty about the likelihood of elections taking place as scheduled.
In summary, the situation in Libya remains fragile, and while progress has been made, there are significant hurdles to overcome before a peaceful, political resolution can be reached.
