Libyan MP Abdel-Moneim Al-Arfi has revealed that only seven candidates remain in the race for the post of prime minister, after several were disqualified due to security restrictions or pending legal cases.
In remarks to the press, Al-Arfi stated that the upcoming phase will involve a detailed review of the candidates’ files and proposed programmes, followed by a vote in the House of Representatives to select a new head of government.
However, he raised serious concerns over the integrity of the endorsement process, citing suspicions of forgery in some nomination signatures.
“Several MPs have reported that their names were included without their knowledge,” he said, adding that this casts doubt on the transparency of the procedures followed.
Al-Arfi stressed that the House aims to elect a candidate who offers clear and binding guarantees to hand over power once national elections are held.
“We want to see a firm commitment from the candidates to step aside after completing the transitional phase,” he added.
The controversy over the nominations comes at a time of renewed efforts to unify Libyan institutions and steer the country toward long-awaited national elections.
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.
