Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya Welcomes Election Date

10 Jun 2012

Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya Welcomes Election Date

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and Head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Mr. Ian Martin, welcomes the announcement by the High National Election Commission that the National Congress elections will be held on 7 July 2012.

"This is an important step in Libya's road to recovery and democracy. It sets in motion the final stages of a historic process for Libyans to freely choose their own representatives for the first time in over four decades. The date announced by the Commission will enable essential preparations to be completed prior to voting."

Mr. Martin commends the Election Commission for the progress made in organizing a credible process consistent with the legal framework determined by the National Transitional Council.

"What has been achieved so far is admirable, especially in the context of an extremely tight timetable and major operational challenges," he said. "I am confident of the commitment of the Election Commission and all authorities to see an early and successful conclusion of this electoral process."

Mr. Martin stressed that the United Nations is committed to supporting the Libyan people achieve results which clearly reflect the will of voters.