The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has called -ahead of the Parliament's session for adopting the necessary adjustments to enable the holding of parliamentary and presidential elections simultaneously on 24 December.

"UNSMIL calls for the adoption of the necessary adjustments, including those put forward by the High National Commission for Elections (HNEC), to enable the holding of free, fair, inclusive, and credible parliamentary and presidential elections simultaneously on 24 December," the UNSMIL stated on Saturday.

The UN mission stressed that "only an inclusive legal framework will pave the way for a credible and inclusive electoral process." It emphasized that respecting the principle of simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections on 24 December 2021 is crucial to preserve the integrity of the electoral process, enhance its credibility, and the right and aspirations of the Libyan people to democratically elect their representatives and leaders as well as the acceptance of the results of the elections.

In its statement, the UNSMIL recalled the obligations under relevant international conventions to which Libya is a party, including protecting the rights of citizens to participate in public affairs.

"In this regard, the Mission calls for the removal of restrictions to participation in the elections to allow Libyans holding public positions to have the opportunity to suspend their duties from the time of submission of their candidacy for presidential elections, as proposed by the HNEC."

It urged Libyan institutions to ensure the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and youth in the elections and to put in place all necessary arrangements to protect voters and women, calling on the Libyan parties to consider without delay ways to increase mutual trust and build consensus on the upcoming elections.

On the other hand, the mission welcomed the readiness of the Presidential Council to bring together relevant Libyan actors to resolve contested aspects related to the electoral process, build consensus and enhance confidence in the process, noting its readiness to support this endeavour.

The statement urged the HNEC to accelerate these efforts once a legal framework that addresses the concerns related to the roadmap and relevant Security Council resolutions is finalized.