Libya’s political impasse is simply not sustainable: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
I will make three points.
First, the United Kingdom reiterates its full support for UNSMIL’s efforts to advance the political process in Libya.
The status quo is simply not sustainable. Libya’s political impasse continues to deprive its people of the democratic choice, economic opportunity, and security they deserve.
Lack of progress on the political track perpetuates the conditions for instability, corruption and economic mismanagement.
So we joined Council members in welcoming the roadmap presented by SRSG Tetteh in August and we urge the Libyan parties to fully engage with the process to enable free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections.
It is disappointing that the first milestones of the roadmap have not yet been met.
We call on stakeholders, particularly the House of Representatives and High Council of State, to complete this work with urgency.
We look forward to the initiation of a structured dialogue as set out in the roadmap, which will be key to maintaining momentum.
Second, the United Kingdom welcomes the 13 September agreement between the Government of National Unity and the Special Deterrence Force as a step to reduce tensions in Tripoli.
It is important that all parties implement the agreements reached.
We stress that protecting civilians and infrastructure must remain the top priority for all parties.
And third, we look forward to the next round of local elections in 16 municipalities next week.
Elections are a central part of inclusive and accountable governance.
We urge Libyan parties to ensure that the elections proceed without obstruction, allowing all Libyans to exercise their democratic rights.
President, as this Council considers the renewal of the UNSMIL mandate this month, we urge all Council members to seize this moment to send a clear and united message to the Libyan actors to engage seriously, in good faith, and with a spirit of compromise to deliver a sustainable political settlement.