Al-Zaira Al-Maqtouf was elected as the first female Mayor of Zaltan during elections held on Monday, 30 December 2024, at the Western Coast Electoral Office. This marks a historic first for Libya, according to the High National Elections Commission (HNEC).
The HNEC announced on that this victory is a testament to the efforts of its Women’s Support Unit, which has worked tirelessly to create optimal conditions for women’s participation in elections. The unit aims to increase women’s representation in municipal councils, encourage candidacy, and advocate for recognising women’s leadership capabilities.
The commission described Al-Maqtouf’s victory as a significant milestone, highlighting Libyan women’s ability to engage in political competition and succeed with integrity and credibility. “This win represents an important shift in Libya’s history, showcasing a model of female leadership that we proudly present to the democratic world,” the HNEC stated.
The Women’s Support Unit also acknowledged the contributions of electoral awareness ambassadors, Kamila Masoud and Aya Boutaba, who worked diligently throughout the year to encourage women in the Western Coast region to participate in elections and run for office.
The commission emphasised that Al-Maqtouf’s election is a pivotal step towards increasing women’s representation in leadership roles, underlining their determination to realise their ambitions and contribute actively to nation-building.
