On the occasion of Eid al-Adha, on behalf of the United Nations family in Libya, I extend my warmest wishes to all Libyans and their families. May this blessed occasion bring health, prosperity, and peace to all.
Once again, Libyans are celebrating Eid this year under difficult living conditions, amidst the ongoing political stagnation and continuing division of institutions. The Libyan people have sacrificed much and endured enormous challenges. The escalating economic pressures continue to weigh heavily on everyday citizens, straining households and overshadowing what should be a time of joy and communal celebration.
During this time of Eid we are highlighting the critical need to address human rights across the country. While there has been some progress regarding the issue of arbitrary arrests and detentions, much more is needed to protect innocent people and bring closure and justice to those suffering under arbitrary detention. UNSMIL remains deeply concerned by the painful, unresolved issue of missing persons. The suffering endured by their families, who wait in unbearable uncertainty, must come to an end. On this occasion, I call for the immediate and unconditional release of all forcibly missing and arbitrarily detained persons; this is a vital step toward reconciliation while also restoring dignity, justice, and societal trust.
The profound sacrifices made by the Libyan people over the years must be met with responsible leadership that considers the best interests of the citizens of the country in all their diverisity. Authorities must act swiftly and decisively to fulfill the people's legitimate aspirations.
I urge all leaders to move beyond the status quo by engaging to ensure that Libyans have the right to choose their leadership and facilitate government of and for the people based on democratic legitimacy, as well as focus on the implementation of projects and programs that are directly responding to the populations expressed needs, as well as supporting recently elected municipal officials across the country to meet their peoples expectations of reliable public services. We trust that when the outcomes of the Structured Dialogue are published shortly, they will review them in good faith as an effort to develop a positive agenda for peace, prosperity and development for Libya.
May this Eid serve as a turning point for peace, reconciliation, and renewed hope across the nation.
Eid Mubarak.