The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Libya, Hannah Tetteh, has confirmed that the new roadmap to be announced on 21 August will provide a clear path for Libya to reach presidential and legislative elections, while refocusing the political process on the Libyan people.
This came during remarks in which she highlighted the main principles on which the new UN initiative is based.
Tetteh explained that the central goal is to empower the Libyan people through the ballot box, saying: “Through elections, we grant trust and empower the elected person to act on our behalf, in accordance with laws and regulations.”
She emphasised the need to ensure the participation of all segments of society, with a particular focus on women’s empowerment.
She added: “All women must be able to fulfil their role and contribute to making a positive difference in their country… Women must be part of the political process, and in Libya it is time to ensure that women are included in these opportunities.”
“UNSMIL is committed to promoting equality” in this regard, she said.
She also revealed that the upcoming roadmap will not only focus on the technical timeline of the elections, but will primarily focus on “putting the Libyan people back at the centre of the process”, including ensuring the active participation of youth, persons with disabilities and Libya’s various cultural components, reflecting an inclusive approach aimed at building broad consensus around the electoral process and its outcome.