The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed concern on Tuesday about the unfolding security situation in Tripoli, the capital, where forces affiliated with various armed groups have been deploying.
The news came as Libyans awaited word on the postponement of long-promised landmark elections scheduled for Friday.
The current mobilization “increases tensions and increases the risk of clashes that could escalate into conflict,” according to UNSMIL.
“Any disagreements on emerging political or military matters should be resolved through dialogue,” the statement said, “particularly at this stage when the country is navigating through a difficult and complex electoral process that should usher in a peaceful transition.”
In the decade since the overthrow of its former leader, Col. Muammar Gadaffi, Libya has faced critical political and security challenges.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has already described the polls as “an vital next step on the road to peace and stability” in the country.
The UNSMIL warned that the developments in Tripoli “do not bode well” for current efforts to maintain the stability, security, and political conditions necessary to deliver peaceful, credible, inclusive, free, and fair elections.
The Mission urged all Libyans to exercise restraint during “this delicate moment.”
They were encouraged to collaborate in order to create a secure and political environment that would allow the country’s progress to be preserved while also allowing for peaceful elections and a successful transition.
Meanwhile, the UN Special Adviser on Libya, Stephanie Williams, is continuing to work with stakeholders toward this goal.
Williams, who was appointed earlier this month, was previously the Acting Special Representative and Head of UNSMIL from March 2020 to January 2021.
She was in charge when the mission secured a historic ceasefire between Libya’s two competing administrations in October 2020.
The agreement paved the way for a political roadmap and transitional government, as well as historic presidential and parliamentary elections.
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