The Libyan Government led by Prime Minister Osama Hammad has openly criticised the outgoing Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Abdoulaye Bathily, in a recent briefing to the Security Council. The government highlighted Bathily’s inability to fulfill his role effectively over the years, accusing him of bias and failure to unify the Libyan parties.
In a detailed statement, the government reflected on Bathily’s past practices which they believe supported their stance of his bias towards certain factions, undermining efforts to bring together all Libyan parties under a single reconciliatory framework.
The statement also condemned Bathily’s suggestion during his briefing about adding a seat for the Libyan government in the dialogue session, interpreting it as a formal endorsement of the country’s political division.
“The proposal by Bathily is unsurprising as it aligns with his historically narrow viewpoint, consistently ignoring our legitimate government, which was entrusted and recognized by the House of Representatives,” the government expressed, indicating his overt support for a government whose mandate had legally ended.
The Libyan Government reiterated its support for local, regional, and international efforts aimed at reconciling and uniting Libyans to end institutional divisions. They disclosed recent initiatives, including hosting Bathily to discuss reconciliation and dialogue matters, despite his continued missteps which they believe fully sabotaged the peace efforts.
Moreover, the government welcomed the assignment of Stephanie Khouri, former Deputy Head of the Mission, to lead the UN mission. “We hope she will maintain responsibility and neutrality, avoiding personal biases and interests, and will adopt policies that unify rather than divide Libyans,” the government stated, expressing optimism about her upcoming tenure.
This announcement marks a significant shift in the Libyan political landscape, signaling a possible new direction in the UN’s approach to resolving the Libyan crisis.
