UN proposes formation of unity govt in Libya

Libya has agreed to form a new national government headed by Prime Minister Fayez el-Sarraj after months of tortuous negotiations, United Nations (UN) envoy Bernardino Leon said on Friday. Since 2014, Libya has been caught up in bloody conflict that has pitted the internationally recognized government in the country’s east against the Islamist-backed one that controls Tripoli.

Today, almost 2.4 million Libyans need humanitarian aid…We believe (this government) can succeed.

Though the United Nations reported Thursday’s news in a tweet saying “Bernardino Leon announcing now formation of Government of National Accord”, more work remains. “If it is not supported, no matter how good they are, it’s not going to work”, he added.

The announcement helps stitching together the oil-rich but chaotic country that fell apart after the overthrow of former dictator Moammar Gaddafi in 2011.

“To all of them: our apologies for not having been able to propose this government before, but also our joy because there is at least a chance”, he said.

The worldwide Organization for Migration, which includes 157 member states, said this week a few 557,899 migrants and refugees have arrived in Europe across the Mediterranean, and almost 3,000 people have died attempting the crossing.

The peace talks have been fragile.

Libya has had two administrations since August a year ago when a militia alliance that includes rebels overran the capital, forcing the internationally recognised government to take refuge in the eastern port of Tobruk. Both the elected House of Representatives and the GNC in Tripoli are expected to vote on the proposal.

“After months of turmoil and uncertainty, the secretary-general urges Libyan leaders not to squander this opportunity”, his spokesman said in a statement.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the proposal of a unity government in a statement issued by his media office, while urging the parties to accept and sign the agreement.