TRIPOLI - The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) congratulates the citizens of 26 Libyan municipalities for the successful conduct of Municipal Council Elections today with a reported high preliminary turnout of 71%.  According to reports, today’s elections were held in an orderly and peaceful manner. The Mission commends the High National Elections Commission (HNEC), electoral staff for professionalism and sound technical performance, and security providers for their dedication in ensuring that citizens were able to exercise their political right to vote and participate in shaping their local governance.

While the counting of votes is being finalized and electoral materials are transported to HNEC offices, we appeal for all actors to preserve calm and address all potential grievances through legal channels. 

UNSMIL also welcomes HNEC’s decision to resume the voting process in seven municipalities of Zawiya region on 23 August, following the destruction of electoral materials by arson attacks yesterday, and stresses the importance of ensuring that voters in all affected municipalities are provided with the opportunity to cast their ballots without further delay.

The Mission reiterates its call for the swift resumption of elections in 16 municipalities where the process was suspended on the eve of polling, as well as in those municipalities suspended in July, to ensure that citizens can enjoy their right to elect their municipal council representatives in all areas of the country, through a peaceful, inclusive, and transparent process.

The Mission remains strongly committed to supporting Libyan-led efforts to advance peace, stability, and democratic governance throughout the country.