UN Concerned about Libya's Security, Elections

On Tuesday, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Tripoli, saying it does "not bode well" for the holding of the country's presidential election on 24 December.

"The current mobilization of forces affiliated with different groups creates tensions and increases the risk of clashes that could spiral into conflict," UNSMIL said today.

"The developments in Tripoli do not bode well for the ongoing efforts to maintain stability and establish security and political conditions conducive to peaceful, credible, inclusive, free, and fair elections."

A recent flare-up in militia tensions in the Libyan capital Tripoli has added to uncertainty already hanging over the country's plan to hold an election this week.

Libya's ability to carry out the poll on schedule was already under threat from a fractious electoral legal framework and a delayed list of approved nominees.

UNSMIL said today the disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, "particularly at this stage when the country is navigating through a difficult and complex electoral process that should usher in a peaceful transition".

There has been no official announcement about the cancellation or postponement of the election, and UNSMIL called "on all Libyan actors… to work together to create a security and political atmosphere that preserves Libya's progress and enables peaceful elections and a successful transition."

The security situation is weighing on Libya's oil output, with more than 300,000 b/d of crude production shut in yesterday. Fields including El Sharara, Wafa and Hamada were shut down by the Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG) militia that typically protects NOC infrastructure and assets, according to state-owned NOC, which declared force majeure on crude exports from the Zawia and Mellitah terminals as a result.