Libyan MP, Ali Al-Tekbali expressed concerns over the ongoing negotiations led by Abdoulaye Bathily, the UN Envoy and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Al-Tekbali highlighted the presence of external pressures, and alleged bribery attempts influencing the Libyan Parliament to participate in these talks.
Al-Tekbali stated that Bathily’s negotiations are “doomed to fail and will not lead to any viable political solution.” He pointed out the conflicting conditions set by the five invited parties, questioning the feasibility of such fragile negotiations.
“The envoys come to Libya with directives, not of their own volition, and aim to find a solution for us,” he remarked, emphasizing that the Parliament has resolved not to negotiate with the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity (GNU), Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba to reject his involvement in deciding Libya’s fate.
Highlighting the impossibility of conducting elections amidst the widespread presence of militias across Libya, Al-Tekbali stressed the need for a “new government formed through a United Nations-led conference that includes Libyan patriots.”
He concluded by asserting that a “unified government in Libya is only possible under pressure from countries exerting influence in the region, as they are the ones vying for a share in Libya’s future.”
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.