The Libyan House of Representatives has begun reviewing files of candidates vying to lead a new government, as tensions rise following deadly clashes in Tripoli. On Sunday, Parliament Rapporteur Sabah Jumaa confirmed that the joint vetting committee, composed of members from both the House and the High Council of State, started examining the files at the Parliament headquarters in Benghazi.
Two new candidates—University of Zawiya President Essam Boukhdair and Abdelkarim Mgueig—have joined the list, bringing the total number of nominees to 13. Jumaa noted that the committee will continue assessing the candidates over the next two days in preparation for a presentation before Parliament on Tuesday.
Monday’s session will focus on the latest developments in Tripoli and public demands following protests against the current government. The capital recently witnessed its worst violence in years, with fierce battles between the Stabilisation Support Apparatus and Brigade 444, leaving dozens dead and top militia leader Abdel Ghani al-Kikli killed.
Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, head of the internationally recognised Government of National Unity, reiterated on Saturday his administration’s commitment to a “Libya free of militias and corruption.” Dbeibah had earlier ordered the dismantling of armed groups, including the powerful Stabilisation Support Apparatus, which falls under the Presidential Council formed in 2021 through a UN-backed process.
In parallel, High Council of State President Khaled al-Mishri announced the beginning of formal consultations with the eastern-based parliament to agree on a “national figure” to lead a new government. This marks another step in efforts to resolve Libya’s prolonged political division and move toward national elections.
