Monday, December 13, 2021

After years of growing division punctuated by open fighting, is Libya finally on the path towards unity and stability? Or more turmoil and partition?

On December 24th, Libya is to hold the first round of Presidential elections, the first step in an effort to finally restore legitimacy to institutions that have long been unrepresentative. But confusion and uncertainty surround the poll. There are bitter divisions over the election law. Some of the most prominent candidates are deeply divisive figures and there are no guarantees for honoring the results. It is not clear whether technical preparations and security are in place. Even the UN mission, counted on to be a reservoir of stability, has seen its leader, Jan Kubis, suddenly resign, with a former US and UN official, Stephanie Williams, called back to duty.

Moderators:

• Edward P. Joseph. NCUSLR VP, Government Relations

• Hani Shennib. NCUSLR Founding Chair (Welcome Remarks)

Speakers:

• Mohamed Eljarih, Director, Libya Desk- Tubrok

• Fadeel Lamin, Presidential Candidate and Special Advisor on MENA Affairs - Tripoli

• Zahra Langhi, Libyan Political Dialogue Forum Member - Benghazi Azza Maghur, Libyan Constitutional Lawyer- Tripoli

• Wolfgang Pusztai, Chairman, NCUSLR Advisory Board & Security Advisor - Vienna