TRIPOLI — The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemns in the strongest possible terms the use of force and intimidation at the headquarters of the National Audit Bureau in Tripoli in an attempt to install a disputed deputy head of the institution. The use of force to impose appointments to sovereign institutions is wholly unacceptable and represents a grave threat to the rule of law and the independence and integrity of Libya's sovereign institutions.
Such actions are particularly concerning when directed at an independent oversight institution entrusted with safeguarding the use of public funds and ensuring accountability in the management of state resources. Any attempt to impose changes to its leadership through coercion will not only further erode public trust, but also undermine the integrity of public financial oversight and the institution's ability to carry out its mandate independently and effectively, in the interest of the Libyan population. Those responsible for attacks against Libyan State institutions risk being subjected to targeted sanctions under relevant Security Council resolutions.
UNSMIL calls for an immediate end to all armed interference in the affairs of the Audit Bureau and the immediate withdrawal of armed personnel from its premises. The Mission urges the concerned parties to resolve the disputed appointment of sovereign institutions strictly through established legal and institutional procedures, in accordance with applicable Libyan legislation and the relevant provisions and principles of the Libyan Political Agreement.