UNSMIL regrets delay, urges GNA formation within new timeline

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has taken notes of the Presidency Council’s statement of January 16 informing of its decision to postpone announcement of the Government of National Accord (GNA) by 48 hours beyond the deadline stated in the Libyan Political Agreement (LPA), a UNSMIL press release said.

While the Mission regrets the delay in announcing the GNA, it urges the Presidency Council to adhere to the new target date it has set itself.

In this regard, UNSMIL emphasises the need for all concerned parties to ensure that the timelines outlined in the LPA are respected.

Libya is a critical juncture. Determination to start a new chapter must be accompanied by immediate steps to end political divisiveness and address the numerous security, humanitarian and economic challenges. The formation of a GNA enjoying the support of the Libyans is but the first step.

The boldness with which terrorist groups such as Daesh have launched their latest string of attacks on key installations in Sidra, Ras Lanuf and Benghazi is a potent reminder of the need to forge a united front to contain and eliminate this growing danger.

UNSMIL calls on all relevant political and security stakeholders to hold Libya’s national interests above all considerations. No effort must be spared nor any opportunity missed to utilise the window of opportunity that Libya has to halt any further expansion by terrorist groups represented in Daesh, Ansar al Sharia and al Qaida.

All efforts to combat and eliminate these terrorist groups must be led by the Libyan State. In this regard, the GNA must lead the collective efforts of the army and its leaderships alongside other security institutions and their leaderships, in the fight against terrorism. Likewise, it is vital that the GNA also avail itself of armed formations currently engaged in the fight against Daesh and other terrorist groups.

The GNA has to prioritize the provision of the necessary training, as well as arming and equipping to enable the army and police institutions to defeat the terrorist groups. Only a collective effort by all patriotic Libyans will save Libya from the scourge of terrorism.

In this regard, UNSMIL, in close cooperation with the international community, is committed to work closely with the GNA to ensure that the necessary support and assistance is provided to the legitimate Libyan authorities, including through a review of the current arms embargo on Libya.

Leadership, courage and determination are now needed to send a strong and clear message to the Libyan people that Libya has taken its first step towards peace, security and prosperity.

Source: MENA