Libya’s Municipal Elections Split Between Rival Governments

Libya’s municipal elections face legitimacy concerns as the High National Elections Commission (HNEC) prepares for 16 November polls amid political division.

HNEC Board Member Abdul Hakim Al-Shaab announced that election results will be submitted to both the Tripoli and Benghazi governments for approval.

He emphasised that the commission maintains neutrality in the country’s political divide and has received support from both administrations.

However, several western region mayors have declared they will reject any municipal councils approved by the parallel government led by Osama Hammad.

This resistance follows accusations from activists who claim the HNEC favours one of the country’s political factions.

The controversy intensified after the HNEC acknowledged receiving financial support from the parallel government, a statement some interpreted as legitimising the House of Representatives-designated government over Tripoli’s Government of National Unity.

Despite these challenges, the HNEC issued a statement on Sunday urging eligible voters to participate in the 16 November municipal elections.

The HNEC, established in 2012 as an independent electoral body, has struggled to maintain its neutrality while organising elections in this divided political landscape.