Election body delays municipal vote to August

Libya’s High National Election Commission (HNEC) has announced that the second phase of municipal elections is set to take place in August, amid ongoing challenges related to security and electoral preparations.

Imad Al-Sayeh, head of the commission, attributed the delay in the electoral process to uncertainty caused by security concerns and operational difficulties in the capital. “The postponement reflects the complex environment surrounding the elections and the need to ensure a stable and transparent process,” he said.

Meanwhile, several groups within the Abu Salim municipality have called on authorities to reopen candidate registration and voter enrolment. Citing recent difficulties experienced in the area, these groups have submitted a formal request to reconsider the election timetable. They proposed postponing the current round and combining it with the third phase of municipal elections to allow for better preparation and participation.

The commission has yet to respond to these appeals, but the situation underscores the ongoing challenges facing Libya’s electoral process as the country works towards establishing democratic governance at the local level.