The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has denied any intention to announce a roadmap to elections in Libya by its Head, Abdoulaye Bathily.
UNSMIL said it has become aware of a “fabricated” story that is circulating in local and regional news networks, about an alleged plan to announce a roadmap by Bathily.
The Mission noted that the false news is “part of an ongoing disinformation campaign to mislead the Libyan people.” It urged all media networks and social media influencers to rely on the Mission’s official website and social media channels for accurate and authentic news and announcements.
It pointed out to the recent briefing by Bathily to the Security Council, where he emphasized his intention to intensify negotiations through constructive engagement with all stakeholders, and relevant institutions. This is to facilitate an inclusive and transparent settlement of the most contentious issues in the draft electoral laws prepared by the 6+6 Joint Committee.
The Mission’s goal is to ensure these draft laws are implementable and lead to the holding of successful elections.
FathAllah Al-Sarari, a member of Libya’s High Council of State (HCS) announced on Tuesday that the proposed roadmap for the country includes the formation of a mini-government, restricted to sovereign ministries, with no more than 12 ministerial portfolios.
He added in an interview with the Arab World Press (AWP) that nominations and endorsements will be made through the Libyan Parliament and the HCS.
Earlier on Monday, the Libyan platform “Fawasel” reported on a version of the roadmap proposed by the Speaker of the Libyan Parliament, Ageela Saleh, and the Head of the HCS, Khaled Al-Mishri. The proposal calls for the formation of a unified government immediately after the two councils adopt the roadmap, with candidates for the new government’s presidency given a 20-day window to apply.
Al-Sarari stated that the roadmap “is a popular and necessary demand for unifying the executive power to hold elections. It is unacceptable to hold them in the presence of two governments in the country. This matter has been under discussion among Libyan parties for some time.”
Saleh and Al-Mishri will present the roadmap to their respective councils for adoption and implementation, to facilitate the establishment of a unified government that oversees elections.
Al-Sarari noted that the proposed roadmap contains the same suggestions that were presented in 2017, and are currently being discussed by all political forces to reach a consensus.