Candidates Vie for Prime Minister Position in New Libyan Government

Candidates have submitted their applications to Aguila Saleh, the Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives, for the position of Prime Minister in the new Libyan government. The submission process is being conducted in accordance with pre-agreed conditions between the House of Representatives and the High Council of State.

Among the notable candidates are Al-Sadiq Al-Kabir, the governor of the Central Bank of Libya; Faisal Qarqab, the former head of the Telecommunications Holding Company; presidential candidates Fadil Al-Amin and Abdelhakim Bayou; and Muhammad Al-Mezoughi. The current Prime Minister, Abdul Hamid Dabeibeh, has defended his stay in office, claiming that his government has achieved successes felt by all citizens.

However, candidate Shteiwi has challenged any member of the House of Representatives to prove that he asked for recommendations. He has also warned of the danger of the continuation of Dabeibeh's government, which he believes will guide the country towards further deterioration and financial instability.

The Libyan House of Representatives, based in Benghazi, announced that it has received the CVs of candidates to lead a new government that will guide the country to elections. Fathi al Marimi, the media advisor to the House, confirmed that the President of Parliament, Aguila Saleh, has received the dossiers of some candidates, though their names have not yet been revealed.

Why this matters: The selection of a new Prime Minister comes amid a prolonged political stalemate in Libya and the failure to implement proposals by the UN Support Mission, including the formation of a five-party table involving key Libyan institutions and figures. The UN has identified four key obstacles to holding elections in the country, emphasizing the significance of this leadership transition.

Libya is currently administered by two rival political-military coalitions - the Government of National Unity in Tripoli and the Government of National Stability in Benghazi. The UN has emphasized the need for a mandatory second round for presidential elections and the full inclusion of all Libyans, including women and cultural components, in the political process. As the House of Representatives reviews the submitted candidacies, the future direction of Libya's governance hangs in the balance.

Key Takeaways

• Candidates submitted applications for Libyan PM position to House of Representatives.
• Notable candidates include Central Bank governor, former telecom head, and presidential hopefuls.
• Current PM Dabeibeh defends his stay, while candidate Shteiwi warns of further deterioration.
• UN identifies 4 obstacles to Libyan elections, emphasizing significance of this leadership transition.
• Libya administered by rival coalitions, UN calls for inclusive political process and second round of elections.