UN envoy to Libya stresses importance of holding elections next December

CAIRO - 23 February 2020: UN Special Envoy to Libya Jan Kubisch held talks in Libya from February 14-21 with Libyan parties from various Libyan political spectrums.

The Libyan parties included the leadership of the Government of National Accord (GNA) and its security apparatus, members of the Presidential Council, the House of Representatives, the Supreme Council of State, the founding body for drafting the constitution and the Libyan Arab Armed Forces. This is in addition to members of the Joint Military Committee (5 + 5), the High Elections Commission, the National Oil Corporation, and members of the recently elected unified interim executive authority.

The discussions dealt with the progress achieved so far in implementing the roadmap approved by the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, shedding light on the urgent need to hold a Parliament session to consider granting confidence to the government that will be proposed by the Prime Minister-designate for the smooth transition of power.

Additionally, the discussions stressed the need for full implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the importance of strengthening Preparations for the next national elections in December 2021.

The UN envoy also touched on the commitment of the leadership in Libya to address the essential social and economic needs of the Libyan people, including facing the coronavirus pandemic and achieving national reconciliation and transitional justice.

Kubisch welcomed the progress achieved by the concerned Libyan parties in various fields, asserting the importance of respecting the road map and continuing to work on its effective implementation.

He affirmed the necessity of continuing to support the ongoing efforts to bring together members of the House of Representatives as soon as possible, as well as support efforts to agree on the constitutional basis necessary to conduct elections in December 2021. He further noted the progress made concerning appointments of sovereign posts.

Kubisch praised the JMC (5 + 5) for the exemplary work it has carried out in implementing its mission and encouraged the committee to continue progressing and take further steps towards reopening the coastal road. He urged all parties to fulfill their obligations and provide the necessary support to implement the ceasefire agreement and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including the exit of foreign forces and mercenaries.

Kubisch emphasized the critical and legitimate role of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum as a force that prevents division and stalemate, and works for the unity and sovereignty of Libya, achieving the will of the Libyan people, who yearn for democratic elections and a unified executive authority.

The Special Envoy highlighted the continuing role and responsibilities of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum and the importance of its road map, and referred in particular to the widespread support at the national and international levels for the results of the Forum that elected the new unified transitional government.

The Special Envoy reaffirmed the strong commitment of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya to supporting the efforts of the Libyan people to reunify Libya, as well as its authorities and institutions, and restore its full sovereignty, in a manner that guarantees sustainable security, stability and prosperity.