Credible elections 'not possible' without political settlement in Libya: UN envoy

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - UN special envoy to Libya urged Libyan institutional actors on Thursday to engage in talks "without preconditions," as the country will soon mark the anniversary of the 2011 revolution.

"I reiterate that progress on holding credible national elections is not possible without a political settlement amongst Libya’s main institutional stakeholders," Abdoulaye Bathily said at a Security Council meeting on the situation in Libya.

Bathily said in 13 years since the revolution, Libyans are still waiting to realize aspirations for sustainable peace and democracy.

"I urge Libya’s leaders, once again, to put their self-interests aside and come to the negotiating table in good faith, ready to discuss all contested issues.

"Reluctance to do so calls into question not only their commitment to the elections, but to the unity and future of their country for which they should be held accountable," he added.

Bathily said the core objective of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) is to support Libyan actors to bring about stability through a peaceful political settlement.

"I therefore would not support any initiative which will bring conflict, trigger war which will lead to the loss of life of Libyans.

"I have steadfastly expressed the UN's readiness to consider suggestions and proposals, but could lead to a solution based on a peaceful and inclusive settlement among stakeholders," he added.

He said the Council and the international community have a "critical role" to play in pressing Libyan parties to engage constructively in this process and parallel initiatives can only be useful if they support UN efforts.

"To avoid Libya sliding into disintegration as foreseen through numerous alarming signs, a political agreement is urgently needed among the major stakeholders to form a unified government that will lead the country to elections," the envoy added.

Oil-rich Libya has remained in turmoil since 2011, when longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi was ousted after four decades in power.

The country has since been divided into two parts, one is governed by the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord, the other by Benghazi-based military commander Khalifa Haftar.