Libyan demonstrators gathered, on Monday January 5, outside the headquarters of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in Janzour, denouncing what they described as escalating foreign interference in Libyan affairs. Protesters called for respect for Libya’s sovereignty and urged an end to external influence that they say has deepened political instability.
Criticism was particularly directed at UNSMIL, with participants blaming the mission for prolonging political deadlock and obstructing electoral processes. They demanded a clear political roadmap towards forming a unified national government tasked with organizing free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections.
Concerns were also raised over the oil sector, with protesters condemning long-term smuggling and theft of crude oil as economic crimes and calling for an international investigation. The High National Elections Commission was urged to clarify reasons for electoral delays. Demonstrators warned that continued inaction could trigger open-ended popular escalation, holding the United Nations responsible for ensuing consequences.
Libya’s parliament had confirmed in December that the first presidential election will not go ahead as planned, leaving the peace process in disarray.
