Latest news with #EmadAl-Sayeh


Libyan Express
22-07-2025
- Politics
- Libyan Express
HNEC, UN review 2025 vote plans
BY Libyan Express Jul 22, 2025 - 04:16 Al-Sayeh, UN discuss election readiness The Chairman of the High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Dr Emad Al-Sayeh, met on Monday with Ms Stephanie Koury, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, to review ongoing preparations for the second round of municipal council elections scheduled for 2025. The meeting focused on the Commission's technical and logistical readiness, particularly as the voter card distribution phase nears completion. With this key stage concluding, HNEC is now transitioning into the vote-preparation phase for the targeted municipalities. Dr Al-Sayeh provided an update on the Commission's operational plan and reaffirmed HNEC's commitment to conducting the elections in a transparent, impartial, and well-organised manner. He stressed that the Commission is working according to a clear timeline developed in close coordination with relevant national bodies and international partners. The discussions also addressed political and technical challenges affecting the electoral process, especially those linked to activating international support mechanisms facilitated through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Both sides emphasised the importance of ensuring a stable and coherent environment to implement the electoral roadmap effectively. Established in 2012, the High National Elections Commission is an independent national institution mandated by Libyan law to organise and oversee all electoral processes, including presidential, parliamentary, and municipal elections. HNEC plays a central role in safeguarding electoral integrity and works to foster voter participation and electoral awareness in partnership with local and international stakeholders. Ms Koury reiterated the United Nations' full support for the Commission, noting the UN's ongoing role in providing technical and advisory assistance to ensure the success and credibility of Libya's electoral processes. The meeting reflects the continued collaboration between Libyan institutions and international partners in supporting a peaceful and democratic transition through inclusive and well-managed elections. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express. How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@ Please include 'Op-Ed' in the subject line.


Libya Review
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
UK Reaffirms Support for Libya's Electoral Process
The Chairman of Libya's High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Emad Al-Sayeh, held a meeting in Tripoli on Tuesday with the UK Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Falconer, to discuss developments in Libya's electoral process. The talks, which also included British Ambassador Martin Longden and HNEC board member Abdelhakim Al-Shaab, focused on preparations for upcoming electoral milestones, particularly municipal council elections. Both sides reviewed ongoing efforts to ensure a secure and transparent electoral environment, as well as the technical and logistical challenges faced by the Commission. According to a statement from HNEC, Lord Ahmad reaffirmed the UK's full support for the Commission's efforts. He stressed that fair and transparent elections are essential to Libya's path toward political stability and the formation of legitimate institutions. The UK minister also praised HNEC's technical readiness and professionalism, noting the Commission's commitment to meeting international standards. Al-Sayeh, in turn, expressed appreciation for the UK's continued backing. He underscored the value of international cooperation in strengthening Libya's democratic process, and reiterated HNEC's pledge to operate with neutrality, transparency, and a firm focus on restoring public trust in electoral mechanisms. The meeting comes at a critical time as Libya attempts to navigate a protracted political transition, marked by delays in national elections and ongoing institutional divisions. Municipal elections, seen as a step toward rebuilding local governance and political legitimacy, are widely anticipated across the country. As foreign partners like the UK continue to engage with Libyan institutions, the international community is signalling its readiness to support a credible and inclusive electoral roadmap for the country. Tags: HNEClibyaLibyan ElectionsUK


Libya Review
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libya's Second Phase of Municipal Elections Scheduled for Mid-August
On Wednesday, the head of Libya's High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Emad Al-Sayeh, confirmed that the voting phase for the second group of municipal council elections will take place before mid-August 2025. In a statement published on the commission's official Facebook page, Al-Sayeh explained that the extended timeline for this electoral phase was primarily due to the need to thoroughly verify the criminal records of over 4,000 candidates. Additional delays were caused by public holidays, religious observances, and recent security incidents in the capital, Tripoli. Despite the setbacks, preparations are moving forward. Al-Sayeh announced that the printing of voter ID cards and ballot papers has been completed. Distribution of the 'Voter' cards will begin on Saturday, 28 June, and will continue for three weeks. Simultaneously, the official campaigning period for candidates will also begin on 28 June and continue until the day of electoral silence, which precedes voting day. Earlier on Wednesday, the Commission issued a new decision requiring candidates to strictly adhere to the campaign rules outlined in Chapter Eight of Executive Regulation No. 43 of 2023, which governs the conduct of municipal elections. The HNEC also urged state-run and official media outlets to coordinate with the commission to allocate appropriate airtime and space for candidates to present their electoral programs. Furthermore, all campaign activities will be subject to monitoring by organizations officially accredited by the commission to ensure transparency and fair practice. This phase of the municipal elections includes dozens of towns and cities, where local governance is crucial for delivering public services and fostering stability. Earlier this month, the HNEC finalized and published the official list of candidates qualified to contest in this round of elections, completing another major step in Libya's ongoing effort to re-establish functioning local institutions across the country. Tags: Electoral CommissionlibyaMunicipal Elections


Libya Review
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
UN & Libya Discuss Electoral Support
The Head of Libya's High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Dr. Emad Al-Sayeh, met on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, with Daniela Kroslak, Head of the United Nations Strategic Assessment Mission to Libya, to discuss international support for Libya's ongoing electoral process. The meeting, held at HNEC headquarters, was part of broader efforts by the United Nations and the international community to assist Libya in advancing toward democratic governance. Discussions focused on the latest updates concerning the electoral roadmap, the progress made in implementing its stages, and the technical and advisory support provided by the UN. The talks also addressed how the UN can continue to support the management of electoral operations, training of staff, and the creation of a secure and inclusive environment to encourage broad voter participation. Kroslak praised the efforts of the HNEC, particularly in the phases completed for the municipal council elections. She reaffirmed the UN's commitment to strengthening Libya's democratic path by offering continued technical and logistical assistance to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. She also stressed the importance of successful elections in achieving local stability and supporting Libya's path toward sustainable development. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges. Tags: Emad Al-SayehHNECLibyan Electionsun


Libya Observer
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Libya Observer
UK Ambassador, HNEC Chairman discuss support for 2025 municipal vote
The Chairman of the High National Elections Commission (HNEC), Emad Al-Sayeh, met Monday in Tripoli with British Ambassador to Libya, Martin Longden, to discuss ways the UK can support Libya's electoral process. The talks focused on preparations for the second round of municipal council elections scheduled for 2025, and on creating the right conditions to ensure a successful vote that reflects the will of the people. Longden reaffirmed the UK's commitment to providing technical and advisory support to the HNEC, aimed at strengthening its readiness and ensuring elections are held with integrity and transparency. News Tagged: Martin Longden HNEC