On Tuesday, the UN Special Envoy to Libya, Abdoulaye Bathily called upon Libyan leaders to “embrace wisdom, a spirit of compromise, and political discernment.”
His appeal aims to encourage “all-inclusive decisions concerning contentious legal matters,” warning that “rash and exclusionary choices could exacerbate the current crisis, potentially inciting a new cycle of violence that must be averted at all costs.”
This plea was part of Bathily’s Eid Al-Adha congratulatory message, shared via the official website of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Bathily extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Libyan people on this holy occasion.
“Eid is a time to reflect on values of sacrifice, convergence, and unity,” said the UN envoy. He expressed hope that these values would inspire Libyan leaders and individuals in positions of responsibility to “take bold and urgent strides towards a unified, stable, and prosperous Libya.”
Citing the prevailing situation, he argued that the “status quo is unsustainable. The patience of the Libyan people, eagerly awaiting the reunification of their country, the chance to elect their representatives, and the opportunity to endorse the legitimacy of state institutions is waning.”
Emphasizing a crucial juncture in Libya’s democratic journey, the UNSMIL Head referred to the 6+6 Joint Committee’s completion of draft laws for Presidential and Parliamentary elections. “We have arrived at a pivotal stage towards elections, the completion of election laws is an opportunity that must not be squandered,” he stressed.
Lastly, Bathily reassured the Libyan people of his unwavering commitment to facilitating dialogue between all parties, aiming to discover Libyan-specific solutions that will lead to successful national elections – an indispensable step towards the continued national reconciliation process and the reconstruction of a united, stable, and prosperous Libya.
