The Libyan Electoral Commission announced on Thursday that 14 lists and 185 candidates have registered for the second phase of the municipal council elections, which began on January 19.
The Commission had opened the candidacy for the second phase of the municipal council elections (Group Two), covering 63 municipal councils. This phase will continue for 21 days, ending on February 8.
It is noteworthy that the first phase of the municipal council elections was held on November 16 last year in 58 municipalities and saw a significant turnout, with a voting rate reaching 74% of eligible voters.
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.
