Libya holds municipal elections in seven towns after security-related delays

Libya has successfully conducted over the weekend long-delayed municipal elections in seven north-western municipalities—Zawiya Markaz, Zawiya Wassat, Zawya Gharb, Zawya Chamal, Sabrata, Sormane, and Bir Ghnam—following a week-long postponement triggered by an attack on election commission facilities in Zawiya.

The High National Election Commission confirmed the polls took place on Saturday, building on earlier phases that saw voting in 58 municipalities in November and 26 more earlier this month.

The UN Support Mission in Libya welcomed the elections, urging all parties to accept the outcomes peacefully and to resolve disputes through legal channels. It emphasized that municipal elections are crucial for restoring accountability and strengthening ties between citizens and their local leaders.

However, Libya’s broader political landscape remains fractured, with rival administrations entrenched in Tripoli and Benghazi, complicating efforts to advance stability and inclusive governance.