Counting underway in Libya following elections in 16 municipal councils
Counting is underway in Libya following voting in 16 councils under the third phase of the country’s municipal elections. The High National Elections Commission reported that polling stations closed at 6pm local time on Saturday, with an estimated…
Counting is underway in Libya following voting in 16 councils under the third phase of the country’s municipal elections. The High National Elections Commission reported that polling stations closed at 6pm local time on Saturday, with an estimated turnout of 68 percent.
The voting process was conducted smoothly and in an orderly and secure manner across the targeted municipalities, adhering to approved procedures.
Libya remains divided between two rival administrations. Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, who leads the internationally recognised Government of National Unity in Tripoli, acknowledged the resumption of the polls. He stated that the vote demonstrates Libyans' capability to practice democracy efficiently and suggests that the conditions enabling the local polls will support national elections.
Counting is underway in Libya following voting in 16 councils under the third phase of the country’s municipal elections.
Voting in the 16 municipalities was incorporated into Phase 3 after previous postponements due to security concerns. Elections in the remaining councils in this stage are scheduled for Fri, Oct 20, 2023.
The UN Support Mission in Libya welcomed the resumption of the elections, describing it as a step toward restoring the legitimacy of local governance institutions. Libyans hope that these municipal elections will pave the way for long-delayed parliamentary and presidential polls.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
