The Libyan National Assembly Parties Union has opposed the UN Mission’s (UNSMIL) involvement in electoral laws, recently adopted by the Libyan Parliament. Through a statement, the Union expressed its rejection of interventions by UN Envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily concerning the election laws completed by the 6+6 Joint Committee.
It stressed that the UN’s input, and requested modifications to the constitutionally issued laws were an interference in Libyan affairs. As well as noting that the High National Electoral Commission (HNEC) has accepted, and is prepared to work according to these laws.
The Union asserted that UNSMIL has “overstepped Libya’s sovereignty for a political solution, surpassing its mediation role. Furthermore, the approach insisted upon by the Mission could potentially hinder the electoral process, perpetuate political deadlock, and make UNSMIL an obstacle.”
Conclusively, the Union called on the Parliament, the High Council of State (HCS), and all political forces to ensure successful elections.
On Wednesday, UNSMIL said in a statement that it has concluded an initial technical review of the Presidential and Parliamentary election laws.
It added that the laws were officially received by UNSMIL from the Speaker of the Libyan Parliament on 5 October.
UNSMIL commended the dedication of the 6+6 Joint Committee in formulating the laws, which stand as a significant compromise between committee members.
Following the initial review and consultations held with key Libyan stakeholders, especially HNEC, UNSMIL affirmed that these updated laws can serve as a solid foundation for conducting elections. However, their successful implementation necessitates the sincere commitment of all parties, with a special emphasis on major leaders.
Nevertheless, several contentious issues remain unresolved, and it underscored that these matters demand a political settlement due to the underlying lack of trust among various political, military, and security stakeholders.