Speaker of the House of Representatives Ageela Saleh has urged the High National Elections Commission to begin preparations “without delay” for holding presidential elections at the earliest possible date. In a statement issued Friday, he said that moving swiftly toward a presidential vote is essential to preserving Libya’s unity, protecting its institutions, and preventing further political fragmentation.
Saleh’s call comes as thousands of citizens took to the streets in several eastern cities, including Tobruk and Ajdabiya, demanding immediate presidential elections. Demonstrators said the absence of an elected national leadership is prolonging instability, undermining state authority, and fueling continued institutional paralysis.
They stressed that a direct presidential mandate is the only path capable of restoring legitimacy and moving the country out of its prolonged transitional phase.
In Tobruk, the municipal council joined a large rally in Martyrs’ Square, declaring support for “free, fair, and direct presidential elections.” Mayors from Emsaed, Bir Al-Ashhab, Al-Burdi, Al-Wefaq, and Qasr Al-Jadi also participated, warning that if the demands for elections are ignored, residents may resort to widespread civil disobedience and consider calls for autonomous administration in areas that remain stable.
Ageela Saleh said that the demonstrations reflect the will of nearly three million registered voters who have been waiting for the opportunity to elect a president. He noted that the House of Representatives has already passed the law enabling the direct election of the president and has formally submitted it to the High National Elections Commission. The Speaker emphasized that the legal framework exists and that only implementation is needed.
Saleh warned that delaying elections would deepen divisions, prolong uncertainty, and threaten the cohesion of the state. He stressed that Libya requires a legitimate executive authority chosen through the ballot box—one capable of unifying institutions, driving reforms, and restoring security across the country.
He concluded by calling on the Elections Commission to activate all necessary procedures immediately, stating that the public’s message is clear, the urgency is undeniable, and the responsibility to act now lies squarely with Libya’s electoral authorities.