Saad Bin Sharada, a member of Libya’s High Council of State (HCS) openly criticized the UN Envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily, accusing him of obstructing Libya’s electoral process. In a televised interview, Sharada alleged that Bathily’s initiatives are “extending the ongoing crisis, and causing further confusion in the Libyan political landscape.”
Sharada expressed his concerns over Bathily’s new dialogue proposal, claiming it “serves to complicate the situation and prolong the transitional phase.” He accused Bathily of “acting in the interests of major global powers, especially the United States, which is not keen on a swift resolution to the Libyan crisis.”
Highlighting a specific instance, Sharada pointed out that agreements reached between Libya’s legitimate bodies, including the Parliament and the HCS, were dismissed under Bathily’s influence. He argued that Bathily and other international stakeholders are “not in favour of conducting elections in Libya, preferring instead to maintain the current unstable situation.”
Bin Sharada’s statements reflect the complexities and frustrations within Libya, regarding the role of international actors. His accusations against the UN and the broader international community highlight the difficulties in navigating the path to peace and stability, in a nation that has long been mired in conflict and political turmoil.
Notably, 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.