Writer and political analyst Issa Abdul Qayyum responded to the clarification from the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) regarding its funding mechanism and activities, including the implementation of the roadmap, asserting that what transpired constitutes a violation of Libyan laws and places the mission under the purview of the law.
Abdul Qayyum explained that the events took place inside a foreign embassy on Libyan territory without the knowledge of Libyan authorities, noting that the Libyan flag was displayed and a non-Libyan woman signed on behalf of the authorities, a situation he deemed a disregard for sovereignty.
He pointed out that the State of Qatar was a principal party and a supporter of one side in the conflict, which makes any consideration of what happened as neutral unacceptable.
He also emphasized that the procedures followed violated Libyan laws, noting that the United Nations itself typically signs for the acceptance of donations or contributions, not a branch office, which makes the current situation ambiguous and dismissive of Libyan sovereignty.
Abdul Qayyum indicated that what occurred has a political interpretation that has stripped the mission of its neutrality and integrity, given Qatar’s declared stance, which has sparked a wave of widespread anger among the Libyan public.
United Nations Clarification
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya had issued a clarification to the public regarding the mission’s funding mechanism and activities, following disinformation campaigns targeting the funding sources of the country’s political process.
The mission affirmed that its funding comes from its regular budget, approved by all 193 member states, in addition to voluntary contributions to support specific projects and programs, such as supporting the political process, demining, reforming national institutions, and assisting in election preparations.
The mission explained that all contributions are subject to the UN’s global financial oversight system, which includes mandatory reporting, multi-level approval, and independent auditing to ensure transparency, neutrality, and prevent any misuse of funds.