The US ambassador to Libya, Richard Norland, said that Washington had watched the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum’s meetings this week in Geneva closely, including several members who appear to be trying to insert “poison pills” that will ensure elections will not happen — either by prolonging the constitutional process or by creating new conditions that must be met for elections to occur.
The US ambassador and special envoy to Libya added in a statement on the US embassy Facebook page that some of these individuals claimed to be working on behalf of political leaders who have given the United States clear assurances that they support elections on December 24.
“Ultimately, Libya’s future can only be determined by Libyans. UNSMIL has worked diligently to facilitate discussions, despite challenges brought by COVID, but it cannot make decisions on behalf of Libyans. We hope the 75 Libyans in the LPDF will re-dedicate themselves to allowing the 7 million Libyans throughout the country to have a voice in shaping Libya’s future.” He indicated.
The US ambassador reiterated that his country stands ready to help the Government of National Unity provide basic services and prepare for national elections until its mandate ends in December and looks forward to hearing the platforms and positions of Libyan candidates as they debate the best ways of solving long-term issues such as the electricity crisis, providing liquidity to Libya’s business sector, fighting corruption, dealing with foreign forces and mercenaries, creating jobs, ensuring security, and finding a path for Libya to prosper in peace.
The Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF) has failed to reach agreement on the constitutional basis for the general elections in December and on the conditions for the presidential candidates, especially dual citizenship and military positions’ privilege before running for the president of Libya.