Tripoli: The High Council of State has issued a response to the recent statement by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) regarding the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the High National Elections Commission. The Council emphasized the importance of respecting Libya's sovereign rights in managing its national political processes.

According to Libyan News Agency, the High Council of State expressed surprise at the UNSMIL statement, which it claimed inaccurately suggested that the Council was responsible for political escalation. The Council underscored that Libyan institutions' powers, as outlined in the Constitutional Declaration, should not be overridden by external entities. It acknowledged the supportive role of the UN mission but highlighted that reconstituting the Board of Directors aligns with constitutional and legal protocols, ensuring the Commission's independence.

The Council dismissed notions that it was obstructing the electoral process, affirming its support for the High National Elections Commission. It highlighted past actions by the Interim House of Representatives in similar contexts, noting the absence of UNSMIL intervention then, which raises questions about consistency in the mission's approach to Libyan institutional decisions.

In its statement, the Council urged UNSMIL to maintain neutrality, facilitating dialogue without bias, and respecting national ownership of political processes. It reiterated its commitment to elections within a consensual framework, ensuring the integrity and acceptance of electoral outcomes, and avoiding unsustainable solutions.