The UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Peace Operations, Martha Pobee told the Security Council on Monday that the overall situation in Libya remains “highly volatile.”
She added that, “despite some progress, a constitutional and political stalemate continues, prolonging tensions and fuelling insecurity, while clashes in and around Tripoli surge.”
Pobee noted that the economic situation in Libya remains dire. “We have witnessed demonstrations by frustrated Libyans over the lack of progress on elections and poor state services. In addition, the human rights situation in the country remains of ‘serious concern’” she said.
While promising progress has been achieved on the constitutional track, consensus on the eligibility requirements for a Presidential candidate remains elusive.
Earlier this month, demonstrators across Libya expressed their frustration over political divisions and deteriorating living conditions.
They demanded that elections be held, and for solutions to the country’s electricity and fuel crises. A number of protesters stormed and damaged the Parliament building in Tobruk, the centre of power for the eastern faction vying to control the country.
“We urge Libya’s political actors to heed the call of their people, and to demonstrate responsible leadership by addressing their grievances,” said the UN official.
As armed groups rally behind their leaders, military activity has increased in the western region This includes in Tripoli and surrounding towns, as well as in Misrata, and on outskirts of Sirte.
“We are deeply concerned about the armed clashes in Tripoli that took place on the night of 21 July and the skirmishes in Misrata on 23 July between armed groups resulting in an unconfirmed number of civilian casualties,” she stated, calling for the ceasefire to be maintained.
“Libyan authorities must investigate all allegations of torture and other human rights violations…[and] those responsible must be held accountable,” the diplomat concluded.