Tripoli: The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya, Hannah Tetteh, emphasized the importance of forming a unified government in Libya as part of the negotiations on the roadmap to elections. This recommendation was made by the Advisory Committee in its report to the Mission, highlighting that a unified government is crucial for the upcoming elections. Tetteh noted that the Mission’s conclusions will be based on public opinion gathered through surveys and consultations.
According to Libyan News Agency, Tetteh participated in an open dialogue via Zoom with 239 Libyan participants, which addressed issues such as election options, accountability mechanisms for those obstructing the process, and enhancing the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in politics. The Mission has conducted consultations with approximately 1,000 people face-to-face and another 1,250 online, including community leaders, women, and youth, to gather public input.
During the dialogue, Tetteh stressed the collective role in the success of the political process and encouraged Libyans to engage in the online survey to hold leaders accountable for implementing the roadmap. Participants expressed concerns over the effectiveness of previous election attempts and suggested establishing a constituent assembly through a national dialogue forum. Others supported simultaneous presidential and legislative elections.
Some participants voiced distrust in current political bodies, believing they are prolonging the crisis. Concerns were also raised about the influence of armed groups on the democratic process and the security situation’s impact on elections. The Advisory Committee recommended forming a unified government before elections, a key point in public consultations.
Tetteh highlighted that institutional change must come through elections, aiming to transition from “transitional” to “elections” phases, resulting in leadership accountable to Libyans. The roadmap development focuses on reaching elections safely, considering challenges from parties opposed to elections.
The Advisory Committee proposed establishing a legal framework addressing timing and candidacy requirements for elections. This framework includes provisions on sanctions and security issues, contributing to conditions necessary for successful elections.
The Mission addressed concerns about promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and youth participation guarantees. One woman shared her challenging experience as a municipal election candidate, facing threats and pressure to withdraw. Tetteh thanked her for her courage and emphasized the importance of women’s participation in shaping Libya’s future.
The Mission’s goal extends beyond supporting women’s voices to representing all societal segments, including persons with disabilities, youth, and cultural components, in negotiations on the political roadmap.