The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) strongly condemns the deliberate attacks that took place in the early morning hours of 15 August against two field offices of the High National Elections Commission (HNEC) in Zawiya and Sahel Al Gharbi. Such criminal acts represent another grave assault on the electoral process and a blatant attempt to disenfranchise citizens, undermine their right to choose their representatives, and obstruct the democratic process. The Libyan people have consistently expressed their aspiration to choose their leaders through a peaceful, credible and inclusive process. Their rights must be fully respected and safeguarded.

These attacks, on the eve of polling day, threaten the conduct of the ongoing municipal elections and the broader democratic aspirations of the Libyan people. UNSMIL reaffirms its unwavering support for the HNEC in fulfilling its mandate, and appeals to security officials to provide the critical support needed to allow the Libyan people to exercise their political rights without fear or intimidation.

UNSMIL calls for a thorough investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for these criminal acts. The Mission urges all relevant authorities and security institutions to take immediate measures to protect electoral premises, personnel, and materials, and to ensure that the will of the Libyan people can be expressed freely and safely on Saturday, 16 August.  The Mission also calls on all relevant authorities across Libya to work together with HNEC to allow for the resumption of elections in all areas where elections have been obstructed as soon as possible.