Supreme Council of State Suspends Session Amid Presidential Election Dispute
The Supreme Council of State suspended its session yesterday, Tuesday, without reaching a decision on naming its new president. The move came amidst escalating disputes between Khaled Al-Mishri and Mohamed Takala over the validity of one of the election papers.
In a special speech to Al-Ahrar, Al-Mishri expressed his opposition to repeating the round, claiming it would open the door to interference in the results. He further accused the unity government of interference in previous elections, suggesting that Takala’s victory was due to their involvement.
While confirming his commitment to his own election, Al-Mishri stated that he would communicate with local and international parties in his capacity as head of the council.
In contrast, Mohamed Takala proposed a compromise, suggesting a repeat of the electoral round on August 20th if no judicial ruling was reached by that date. He framed the repetition as an opportunity for members to reaffirm their worthiness of the council’s trust.
Yesterday’s session ended without a resolution, with Takala announcing the suspension of the voting and referral of the case to the judiciary.
Al-Mishri addressed the members after the meeting, urging them to accept the election result and complete the elections for the presidency and its two deputies.
Controversy arose during the session regarding the validity of one of the election papers. The paper was stamped in favor of Takala but had an inscription on the back suggesting otherwise. While some members counted it in Takala’s favor, others deemed it invalid, giving Al-Mishri a one-vote advantage.
The presidency of the Supreme Council of State requested the termination of the live broadcast of the session before a final outcome was announced.
This is the ninth presidential election held by the State Council since its establishment in 2015.