Libya resumed municipal elections on Saturday in seven cities where voting was postponed last week following security disturbances. According to the High National Election Commission (HNEC), polls opened in Al-Zawiya Central, Al-Zawiya West, Al-Zawiya Middle, Al-Zawiya North, Sabratha, Sorman, and Bir Al-Ghanam.
These elections follow the first round held last week in 26 municipalities, where results are expected to be announced later today. In total, 63 municipalities are scheduled to elect new councils across the country, marking a crucial step in revitalizing local governance.
The HNEC had delayed voting in Al-Zawiya and parts of the western coastal region after attacks on its local offices just hours before polls were scheduled to open. Despite the disruptions, the commission emphasized its commitment to ensuring that every municipality has the opportunity to elect representatives through a transparent process.
Voter participation in the first stage was strong, with 71 percent of eligible citizens casting ballots. Observers see this turnout as a sign of public demand for functioning local governance at a time of deep national political divisions.
Municipal councils in Libya carry significant responsibility for basic services and local administration, particularly in the absence of a unified national government. With rival authorities in Tripoli and Benghazi still locked in a political deadlock, local elections are viewed as vital to maintaining community stability and addressing daily needs.
The resumption of elections in the postponed municipalities is seen as a test of the commission’s ability to safeguard the process from external pressures and security threats. International observers have urged Libyan institutions to continue strengthening transparency, fairness, and inclusivity to maintain credibility.
