Libya's electoral process has entered a new phase after the House of Representatives issued a set of laws and decisions that reorganize the legislative framework for elections. These changes set a timeline for concurrent presidential and parliamentary elections within 24 months of forming a unified executive authority. The new regulations also involve the reconstitution of the High National Elections Commission.
The amendments include reverting to the 2014 law for electing the House of Representatives, rather than the 2023 law for electing the Council of State. This temporary measure will remain in effect until a permanent constitution is adopted. The new framework also empowers the elected House of Representatives to address matters related to the permanent constitution, including its adoption.
The new electoral law outlines a two-round system for presidential elections, with the second round eliminated if a candidate secures an absolute majority in the first round. The regulations also allow dual citizens to run for president, provided they renounce their non-Libyan citizenship before taking the oath of office. Additionally, military personnel can run for and hold the presidency, but must resign from their military service before taking office.
In the context of parliamentary elections, the amendments permit political parties to participate by fielding individual candidates in various electoral districts. To run for president, candidates must collect 20,000 endorsements from registered Libyan voters. These conditions aim to establish clear numerical criteria for those seeking the highest office in the country.
The House of Representatives has also reconstituted the High National Elections Commission, with Dow Al-Ibrahim Atia as its head. The new commission members are required to be neutral and not affiliated with any political entity or party. This move seeks to provide an institutional framework for managing the upcoming elections.
The new electoral roadmap is part of a broader political process that includes an agreement signed in Tripoli on August 30, 2026. This agreement, supported by the UN Mission in Libya, outlines a path to national elections within two years, linked to the formation of a unified executive authority and national institutions.
The implementation of these decisions will require the new elections commission to finalize preparations and manage the electoral process within the set timeline. The success of this process depends on the ability of institutions and political parties to execute the new regulations and provide a stable electoral environment.
Key points
- Libya's House of Representatives has set a 24-month timeline for presidential and parliamentary elections.
- The new electoral law allows dual citizens to run for president and military personnel to hold the office.
- The High National Elections Commission has been reconstituted to oversee the electoral process.
