On Tuesday, the United States reaffirmed its support for Libya’s upcoming municipal elections, scheduled for November 16, 2024, as part of a broader push to promote local governance and political stability in the country.
The US Embassy in Libya emphasized that these elections represent an important opportunity for 58 municipalities across Libya to select their local leaders, helping foster accountability and democracy at the community level.
The US has pledged technical assistance to the High National Elections Commission (HNEC), which is organizing the elections and will continue to cooperate with other key technocratic institutions to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process. This commitment reflects the U.S.’s ongoing effort to support Libya’s democratic transition and encourage good governance from the ground up.
The municipal elections come at a time when Libya is still grappling with fragmented governance and political divisions, making the role of local councils critical for maintaining order and addressing citizens’ needs. The U.S. views these elections as a key step toward stabilizing Libya, underscoring the importance of grassroots democracy to rebuild public trust in state institutions.
A US Embassy spokesperson emphasized that the elections present a chance for Libyans to shape their future at the local level, reaffirming the U.S.’s belief that transparent and fair elections are essential for sustainable development and peace. The United States has called on all political actors in Libya to respect the electoral process and ensure that citizens can vote freely and safely, without interference.
The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) is working closely with the U.S. and other international partners to help facilitate the elections. While the UN has commended HNEC’s preparations, the U.S. is taking a more direct role by providing technical expertise to support election logistics and oversight.
The elections come as part of a broader effort to rebuild Libya’s governance framework through local engagement. For years, many municipal councils have operated beyond their terms, and the new elections are expected to renew local legitimacy and empower communities.
However, security challenges and political uncertainty remain a concern. The U.S. has urged all political factions and security forces to avoid disruptive actions and uphold a peaceful environment during the election period. A safe and transparent electoral process will not only restore confidence in governance but could also pave the way for national elections.
