Residents of seven municipalities in northwestern Libya were finally able to cast their votes on Saturday. The areas involved included Zawiya Markaz, Zawiya Wassat, Zawiya Gharb, Zawiya Chamal, Sabrata, Sormane, and Bir Ghnam. Voting in these municipalities had been postponed for a week due to security concerns following an attack on a local electoral commission office.
The current round of voting follows the initial phase last November, which took place across 58 municipalities, while a second session earlier this month covered 26 local councils. Although not every municipality has participated, these elections are widely regarded as a critical step toward revitalizing local governance.
Libya continues to be split between two rival administrations: one based in Tripoli under Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, which governs the west, and another in Benghazi led by Osama Hammad, controlling the east and much of the south.
Earlier this week, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, a senior United Nations official, commended Libyans for their determination to exercise their democratic rights despite ongoing challenges. However, addressing the UN Security Council, Tetteh highlighted that the country still faces political stalemate, precarious security, economic difficulties, and human rights concerns. She urged the establishment of a politically feasible electoral framework, the unification of state institutions, and inclusive dialogue to ensure all Libyans can participate in shaping the nation’s future.
