In a joint statement, members of the Libyan House of Representatives (HoR) expressed their frustration with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), accusing it of failing to fulfill its mandate and exacerbating the ongoing crisis.
The criticism follows a recent briefing by UNSMIL head, Stephanie Khoury, to the UN Security Council, which MPs described as disappointing and disconnected from the aspirations of the Libyan people. The statement, obtained by Libya News 24, lambasted the mission, claiming it has shifted from being a neutral mediator to becoming part of the problem.
The joint statement emphasized the need for respecting Libya’s sovereignty as a cornerstone for resolving the crisis. Lawmakers called for the end of the transitional phase through free and fair elections with a clear timetable and binding outcomes.
The MPs criticized UNSMIL’s approach, arguing that its actions have prolonged the Libyan people’s suffering under dire political, security, and economic conditions. They also accused the international community and UNSMIL of bearing moral and legal responsibility for the country’s deteriorating situation.
The statement raised serious doubts about UNSMIL’s ability to unite Libya’s divided factions or drive them toward a comprehensive agreement. “The mission’s failure to meet its objectives raises questions about its commitment to helping Libyans overcome their crisis,” the MPs stated.
Highlighting international interference as a significant obstacle, MPs urged local solutions to prevent further external manipulation of Libya’s political future.
The statement called for reconciliation and the restoration of institutional functionality as the only viable solution to the crisis. Lawmakers stressed that internal divisions remain the biggest challenge to stability, underscoring the importance of building trust among all Libyan parties.
The MPs concluded by urging national forces and institutions to unite against attempts to undermine Libya’s independence. They warned that further delays in holding elections would open the door to more external interference, complicating the path toward recovery.
With the criticism mounting, UNSMIL faces mounting pressure to rebuild trust and demonstrate neutrality in facilitating Libya’s recovery. Whether it can rise to this challenge remains a critical question for the country’s future.
