UNSMIL Initiates Public Consultation for Libya’s Future

Tripoli: The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) announced the launch of a public consultation aimed at gathering Libyans' views on the proposals of the Advisory Committee, which it formed to advance the country toward holding elections and unifying state institutions.According to Libyan News Agency, the mission invited all Libyans to participate in this consultation, emphasizing the opportunity it provides to unify visions and positions for building a better future for Libya. The Advisory Committee, consisting of 20 Libyan figures with expertise in political, constitutional, legal, and electoral matters, submitted its final report on May 5. The report includes recommendations addressing contentious issues that hinder national elections.The recommendations propose holding presidential and legislative elections within two years, ensuring the independence of the High National Elections Commission, and forming a new executive government with a clear political agreement and timeframe. Additionall y, it suggests adopting a permanent constitution before the elections, activating a national dialogue mechanism to replace current political bodies with an elected constituent assembly, and implementing necessary institutional and legislative reforms.Further recommendations include restructuring the commission, granting it financial independence, amending laws for effective implementation, imposing restrictions on the interim government to prevent long-term commitments, adopting a national code of political conduct, establishing an independent election monitoring body, and creating a national arbitration mechanism to resolve disputes early.