The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, called on Libyan parties to work together to hold inclusive and credible elections as soon as possible, stressing the need for the complete withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign forces.

In a report submitted to the Security Council, Guterres said that it is necessary that all Libyan stakeholders unequivocally commit to focusing on holding free, fair, inclusive and credible presidential and parliamentary elections as soon as possible.

He also stressed the need to create the necessary political and security conditions for holding presidential and parliamentary elections without further delay, calling for action in accordance with the Libyan laws in order to hold elections in a safe and peaceful environment with full and equal participation of women and youths.

Guterres called for the continuation of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement with the complete withdrawal of mercenaries, and foreign fighters and forces from Libya, whose number the United Nations estimates at more than 20,000. He noted that competition among armed groups to control territory continued to affect security in Tripoli and in the cities of the northwest region.