The High National Elections Commission (HNEC) of Libya announced on Sunday the publication of voter lists for the upcoming second phase of local municipal elections.
According to the Commission, a total of 560,896 voters have registered to participate as of 13 April. This includes 388,033 male voters and 172,963 female voters. The figures reflect growing public engagement in the electoral process across targeted municipalities.
In a related development, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) issued a final appeal urging citizens not to miss the opportunity to participate in the municipal elections, underscoring the importance of local governance in the country’s democratic transition.
To accommodate growing demand and last-minute registrations, HNEC has extended the registration deadline by 48 additional hours, limiting the process to text message registration only. Voters can register by sending their national ID number and polling centre number via SMS to 17017.
Separately, the Commission revealed that 340 candidates have been excluded from the municipal race following a review process.
The municipal elections are a key part of Libya’s broader roadmap toward decentralisation and political stabilisation, with international and national stakeholders calling for inclusive and transparent participation.
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.
