The President of the Presidential Council, Mohamed Al-Menfi, welcomed the UN Security Council’s resolution, and considered it to represent, in its clarity and language, an important roadmap for a watershed in Libya’s history that decided the terms of reference and priorities, indicating that they would work to implement it.
Al-Manfi said through his account on the “X” platform: “The close link between the election laws and the 6/6 Committee as a basis, through a popular referendum to end the political stalemate, represents a real path to achieving the elections.”
He added: “The independence, transparency and exclusivity of the National Oil Corporation in managing the only economic resource for the Libyan people, under the supervision of the Joint Higher Financial Committee, represents an important step to address the inflation of public spending and support the economy and development.”
The Security Council voted unanimously, “on a draft resolution to renew the mission of the United Nations mission in Libya for 3 months until January 31, 2025, with an automatic extension for 7 months until October 31, 2025, on the condition that a new envoy is appointed by January 31, 2025.”
The Security Council said in a statement: “We must build on the electoral laws that resulted from the 6+6 Committee, the road map, and the political agreement,” adding, “The Secretary-General of the United Nations must appoint a special representative as soon as possible.”
The Security Council added: “All Libyan parties must know that there is no military solution in Libya and refrain from carrying out any actions that undermine the political process. All participants in actions that threaten stability or political transition or obstruct elections must be placed on the sanctions lists.”
Britain’s representative to the Security Council, Barbara Woodward, said: “The decision to extend the mandate of the UN mission sends an important message confirming the Council’s commitment to standing by the Libyan people.”
She added: “The decision confirms our support for a political process that includes everyone and leads to free and fair elections, and the United Nations will continue to play a pivotal role in this regard, and we call on all parties to stop taking unilateral steps that undermine consensus.”
Last updated: November 1, 2024 – 02:30
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Time.news Interview: Navigating Libya’s Path Forward
Host (Time.news Editor): Welcome to Time.news, where we dive into pressing global issues. Today, we’re unpacking the recent developments in Libya, particularly following the UN Security Council’s new resolution. Joining us is Dr. Sarah Al-Hakim, a noted expert in Middle Eastern politics and Libyan affairs. Thank you for being here, Dr. Al-Hakim.
Dr. Sarah Al-Hakim: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss the important developments in Libya.
Editor: Let’s get straight into it. The President of the Presidential Council, Mohamed Al-Menfi, welcomed the UN Security Council’s resolution as a significant turning point for Libya. What do you think makes this resolution so pivotal for the country’s political landscape?
Dr. Al-Hakim: The resolution is crucial because it outlines a structured approach to ending the ongoing political stalemate. It reiterates the need for the 6/6 Committee to develop election laws, which are fundamental to restoring trust in the political process. Al-Menfi’s emphasis on the election laws and the popular referendum reflects a commitment to empowering citizens and ensuring their voices are heard.
Editor: You mentioned the 6/6 Committee. Can you explain the significance of this committee in the broader context of Libya’s governance?
Dr. Al-Hakim: Absolutely. The 6/6 Committee is tasked with creating a unified electoral framework, which is vital for holding credible elections. Its work can lay the foundation for a democratic process that includes all parties involved in Libyan politics. Achieving consensus within the committee is crucial to avoiding further division and conflict, which have plagued Libya for years.
Editor: In his remarks, Al-Menfi highlighted the management of the National Oil Corporation as a critical economic issue. How does this relate to the political resolution, and why is it so urgent?
Dr. Al-Hakim: The independence and transparency of the National Oil Corporation are essential for economic stability in Libya, which heavily relies on oil revenues. By ensuring this institution operates without political interference, the government can better address public spending inflation and facilitate long-term economic development. This economic reform is a vital part of the overall political strategy, linking economic management and political stability directly.
Editor: The Security Council’s resolution also extends the UN mission in Libya until January 31, 2025, with an automatic extension pending a new envoy’s appointment. What implications does this have for international involvement in Libya?
Dr. Al-Hakim: This extension signals a continued commitment from the international community to support Libya’s transition. A new UN envoy can bring fresh perspectives and strategies to engage Libyan factions effectively. Moreover, it underscores the importance of international oversight in facilitating a peaceful resolution and fostering an environment conducive to elections.
Editor: A lot rides on these developments. What challenges do you foresee as Libya attempts to implement this roadmap?
Dr. Al-Hakim: One of the biggest challenges will be winning the trust of the various political factions and ensuring that they are committed to the electoral process. Additionally, economic pressures, such as inflation and public dissatisfaction, could impede progress. There’s also the matter of security; without a reliable framework, the threat of violence remains ever-present.
Editor: Complex challenges indeed. As we close, what do you believe is the most encouraging sign for the future of Libya at this moment?
Dr. Al-Hakim: The unified international support reflected in the UN resolution is a hopeful sign. Moreover, the willingness of Libyan leaders like Al-Menfi to engage in dialogue shows a potential shift towards prioritizing the needs of the Libyan people over entrenched political interests. If they capitalize on this moment, there could be real progress.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Al-Hakim, for your insights into this critical juncture in Libya’s history. It seems clear that while the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, there’s potential for a brighter future if the right steps are taken.
Dr. Al-Hakim: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a peaceful and prosperous Libya.
Editor: That’s it for today’s discussion. Join us next time on Time.news as we continue to explore the stories that shape our world.