On Sunday, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) extended its heartfelt greetings to the Libyan people on the occasion of the Islamic New Year 1446, expressing optimism for the country’s journey toward elections, lasting peace, and stability.
In an official statement, UNSMIL conveyed, “We extend our warmest congratulations and sincere best wishes to all Libyans on the advent of the New Hijri Year 1446. We hope that this new year will set Libya on the right path to conduct elections, achieve enduring peace and stability, and bring prosperity to the Libyan people.”
Today is a national holiday across all state institutions in Libya to mark the beginning of the Hijri New Year, except for ongoing secondary school examinations, as announced by both the Government of National Unity and the government appointed by the House of Representatives.
Earlier, the head of the Libyan Presidential Council, Mohamed Al-Mnifi, extended his greetings to the Libyan people, expressing his optimism and determination to continue working towards the aspirations of Libyans for a better future.
Libya has been in a state of turmoil since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011, with various factions vying for control. The country is currently divided between the Government of National Unity in Tripoli and the eastern-based government supported by the Libyan National Army. This division has led to a prolonged period of conflict and instability, severely impacting the lives of ordinary Libyans.
Despite multiple attempts at peace negotiations and ceasefires, the path to stable governance has been fraught with challenges. The United Nations has been actively involved in mediating talks and supporting efforts to establish a unified government capable of conducting national elections. The upcoming elections are seen as a crucial step towards ending the division and fostering a stable political environment.
[3:27 AM, 7/8/2024] Mr Bilal Saleh: More titles please
