Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council
meeting on Libya.
"We welcome the SRSG’s efforts to convene representatives of the
five major stakeholders in a preparatory meeting as a next step
towards resolving the outstanding issues related to elections.
We note, however, that only three of the five invited parties -
the High State Council, Government of National Unity, and
Presidential Council - have so far nominated representatives,
with others setting preconditions for their participation.
The SRSG has been clear that the preparatory meeting will provide
space for all parties to express their concerns. We therefore
reiterate our expectation that Libya’s leaders respond to the
SRSG’s invitation constructively. We call on all parties to
engage in good faith without preconditions. To do otherwise
prevents progress towards the elections that 2.8 million Libyans
have registered for.
President, we remain concerned at the shrinking space for civil
society across Libya, alongside the alarming trend of human
rights violations, particularly in regard to migrants and
refugees, that continue without accountability.
Civic space must be protected to allow Libyans to hold their
leaders accountable and empower everyone to play a role in
developing an open, democratic society with freedom of
association, operation and assembly. We also regret the tragic
incident of 61 migrants who drowned following the shipwreck off
Libya this weekend.
As Libya begins reconstruction in response to the devastating
floods in September, it remains vital that this is funded through
a unified Libyan approach, with full transparency, effective
oversight, and accountability. Libyan public funds must be used
for the benefit of all Libyans, with the Libyan people having a
voice in how public money is spent.
President, the benefits of setting Libya on the path towards a
democratic, united, and stable state would be enormous. It would
allow the full reintegration of Libya’s people and economy into
the international community.
We urge those invited to the preparatory meeting of the major
stakeholders to fully engage in order to fulfil their
responsibilities to the Libyan people. The UK will continue to
support the SRSG and work across Libya’s divides to deliver for
the Libyan people."
