Libyan Member of Parliament Jaballah Al-Shibani has warned that any attempts to form a new unified government in Libya will be futile without a comprehensive, phased plan to disarm the country’s armed factions.
In a recent statement, Al-Shibani likened the current security situation to “working in an armed jungle,” stressing that no political initiative can succeed unless the rampant weapons proliferation is addressed first.
He emphasized that the proposed disarmament strategy should be led by the United Nations and implemented gradually. The plan must target heavy, medium, and light weapons and include clear mechanisms to integrate fighters into Libya’s official security, military, police, and even civilian institutions based on their qualifications.
Al-Shibani noted that the integration process must adhere to strict standards and be accompanied by credible guarantees, financial incentives, and compensation schemes to encourage militants to surrender their weapons and join state institutions.
He also criticized the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) for perpetuating what he called the “recycling of transitional stages,” which he believes is stalling real progress and prolonging the suffering of the Libyan people.
His remarks come in response to the new roadmap presented by Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, before the UN Security Council. Her plan revolves around three core pillars: establishing a solid electoral framework, forming a unified government to oversee the transitional phase, and launching a structured national dialogue to ensure broader Libyan participation in shaping the country’s future.
Tetteh confirmed that the roadmap will span 12 to 18 months and will include reforming the board of the High National Elections Commission to address the flaws that prevented elections in 2021.
