The United States (US) has called on all Libya actors, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives (HoR) Aqila Saleh and the Head of the High Council of State (HCS) Khalid Al-Mishri to come together under UN auspices to agree swiftly on the constitutional basis.
In a statement by the US embassy in Libya, Washington reiterated that if the two institutions cannot reach an agreement swiftly on a credible electoral roadmap, alternative mechanisms can, and should be used to adopt a constitutional basis for elections.
“At the same time, we also commit to supporting inclusive intra-Libyan dialogue under UN auspices.” The US statement explained.
It also congratulated Libya on its Independence Day, while noting with concern that one year has passed since the postponement of the scheduled elections in Libya on 24 December 2021.
“Free, fair, transparent, and inclusive presidential and parliamentary elections as soon as possible across the country remain the clear will and aspiration of the Libyan people. They deserve a unified and democratically-elected government that can govern for the good of the whole country and its people, as well as a legislature with a renewed mandate.” The statement reads.
The statement urged all Libyan actors and key stakeholders to work with SRSG Bathily through compromise and constructive engagement, to fulfil their responsibilities to the Libyan people in order to deliver long-term stability, security and prosperity.
“We stand ready to work with all sides in support of these aims and we reiterate our support for SRSG Bathily’s efforts.” The statement added.
The United Kingdom and Germany both issued similar separate statements on December 24, urging for agreement on constitutional basis for elections and for cooperation with Bathily to move the country forward toward elections.