During a video conference with Assistant Secretary-General and Coordinator of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) Raisedon Zenenga, a group of representatives of more than 15 political parties called on the relevant Libyan authorities to hold national elections later this year.
“Participants unanimously stressed the need to break the endless cycle of transitions and for all relevant authorities and institutions in Libya to prioritize the holding of elections on 24 December 2021 as scheduled,” the UNSMIL said in a statement.
They called on the United-Nations (UN) sponsored Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF), the House of Representatives, and the High Council of State to clarify the constitutional basis for elections before July.
“They outlined steps needed to create a conducive environment for elections, including providing the necessary space for political parties and movements, ensuring freedom and security for political activities for citizens across all regions, enabling meaningful participation and representation of women and youth, and putting in place a binding charter that will guarantee acceptance of election results by all,” the statement said.
The participants also identified as priorities the reunification of the country and its institutions, progress on national reconciliation and fighting corruption, as well as the immediate departure of foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya, it said.
The LPDF has recently selected a new executive authority of a unity government and a presidency council.
The new executive authority’s main task is to prepare for the national elections on Dec. 24, 2021, as endorsed by the LPDF. (Xinhua/NAN)