Libya ready for elections but delayed by lack of electoral law

On August 11th, the head of the Libyan High National Election Commission (HNEC), Emad Al-Sayeh, announced that elections in Libya are delayed due to an absence of electoral laws, according to the Libya Review.

The voting phase of municipal elections was due to take place by mid-August– in preparation, all technical and logistical preparations have been made by the commission, and training has been conducted for polling staff.

The United Nations has also been involved in facilitating elections, proposing plans for elections, and recently carrying out public opinion surveys on how the nations should move towards uncorrupted, democratic national elections.

However, in Al-Sayeh’s announcement, he explained that there is no legal foundation to hold the vote, and that to rectify the issue, a comprehensive political agreement must be made between all the relevant parties to ensure adequate security and legal arrangements.

Al-Sayeh stressed that a lack of a political agreement would affect the conduct and outcome of the elections.

Libyan municipal elections have faced delays before now. It was reported on July 2nd that voter card distribution, which began on June 28th, has been completely halted in Benghazi, Sabha, and Sirte without explanation.

The Libyan Crime Watch accused the head of the Libyan National Army, Khalifa Haftar, and the eastern-based government of deliberately sabotaging and obstructing elections.

According to the Libya Review, the Interior Minister at the Government of National Unity, Emad Al-Tarabulsi, has confirmed that the ministry is fully prepared to secure the upcoming presidential elections, adding that it is a vital step to elect a legitimate president whom the Libyan people can trust.

Al-Tarabusi stated that the ministry is also ready to secure parliamentary elections, to elect a House of Representatives that reflects the will of the citizens and can effectively lead to legislative process.

The minister also highlighted how essential election security is, and that they are coordinating with security agencies to provide a safe environment, encouraging higher voter turnout and protecting ballot boxes.

Libya Review/Maghrebi