Libyan Presidential Candidate Warns of Threats to Nation's Unity and Existence

Fathi Bashagha, a prominent Libyan presidential candidate and former interior minister, has sounded the alarm about the grave dangers facing Libya's unity, independence, and very existence due to the current political and economic turmoil in the country. In recent statements, Bashagha highlighted the significant structural and political challenges that threaten to tear the nation apart.

Libya has been confronting a range of issues, including weak infrastructure, governance problems, and worsening political division and insecurity. The economy is also in crisis, with untargeted spending, lack of specific budgets, and structural and regulatory issues with the Central Bank of Libya. A recent 27% tax on foreign exchange sales has sparked widespread debate and concerns about increasing economic pressure on the poor and potential high inflation rates.

Why this matters: The stability and future of Libya hang in the balance as the country faces a perfect storm of political, economic, and security crises. The outcome of this critical juncture will have far-reaching implications for the Libyan people and the wider region.

Bashagha's warnings come amidst his own political challenges, as he was recently suspended by the eastern-based parliament, which also announced an investigation against him for unspecified reasons. This move reflects the deep divisions within the eastern camp, particularly between the Haftar clan and the parliament. Some analysts suggest that Bashagha's political demise could signal a move toward rapprochement between the eastern camp and the internationally recognized government in Tripoli.

The UN has been pushing for new elections in Libya, but these have been repeatedly delayed. Bashagha had sought Haftar's support in late 2021, vowing to work for national reconciliation. However, his usefulness appears to have ended, and there are reports of talks between representatives of Haftar and the interim Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah. The UN hopes for an agreement by mid-June 2024 to hold elections before the end of the year, but some analysts are less optimistic, stating that the current elites have no intention of leaving power to allow for credible and authentic elections.

Experts are calling for urgent measures to restructure the economy and improve financial management in order to achieve economic and social stability in Libya. The U.S. Embassy in Libya has commended the role of the High National Election Commission (HNEC) in fostering broad participation and inclusion of all Libyans in the electoral process. USAID Libya Representative Cardenas discussed HNEC's preparations for municipal and national elections and coordination with UNSMIL, UNDP, and other international partners in support of the commission's efforts.

As Libya navigates this critical period, Bashagha's warnings serve as a sobering reminder of the high stakes involved. "Libya's unity, independence, and existence are at stake due to current events," he cautioned. The international community and Libyan leaders will need to work together to address the pressing challenges and chart a path towards a more stable an

Key Takeaways

• Libyan presidential candidate Fathi Bashagha warns of grave dangers to Libya's unity and independence.
• Libya faces political, economic, and security crises, including weak infrastructure and governance issues.
• Bashagha was recently suspended by the eastern-based parliament, reflecting divisions within the eastern camp.
• The UN is pushing for new elections in Libya, but they have been repeatedly delayed.
• Experts call for urgent economic restructuring and improved financial management to achieve stability in Libya.