Libya’s Speaker Advocates for Swift Formation of New Government

House of Representatives Speaker Aqila Saleh emphasizes the urgent need for a new unified government in Libya, criticizing the Presidential Council’s authority. He argues that forming this government is necessary regardless of ongoing discussions about elections, reflecting a call for immediate solutions to the country’s pressing problems.

In an urgent move that could reshape Libya’s political landscape, House of Representatives Speaker Aqila Saleh has proposed the immediate formation of a new, unified government. This is aimed at superseding both the Government of National Unity and Hammad’s administration. Saleh emphasized that the pressing needs of the Libyan people—food, medicine, electricity, education, and salaries—should be the priority of any governing authority, citing these as fundamental executive responsibilities.

During a video statement released on Saturday, Saleh addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding the prospect of parliamentary elections, clarifying that the establishment of a new government should not be contingent upon such elections. He suggested that if parliamentary elections are pursued, there is potential for presidential elections to occur concurrently. This statement indicates his intent to streamline governance amidst the ongoing political tumult.

Saleh did not shy away from criticizing the Presidential Council’s actions, accusing it of overreaching its legislative authority and contributing to the ongoing political impasse. He firmly rejected the council’s ability to issue legally binding decrees without legislative backing, calling for a new governing body to be formed swiftly. “We no longer have multiple paths or a range of solutions,” he stated, emphasizing the need for consensus between the House of Representatives and the High Council of State to advance toward resolution.

Reflecting on previous attempts at dialogue—from the Skhirat agreement to talks in Geneva—Saleh expressed disappointment, citing their failure to adequately fulfill the ambitions of the Libyan populace and their role in exacerbating the country’s crises, dividing its governance, and enabling corruption. He underscored a need for political action that prioritizes concrete outcomes over ongoing, ineffective discussions.

In a further statement regarding legislative authority, Saleh insisted that the Presidential Council lacks the legal right to enact decrees with the power of law. He drew attention to the constitutional obligations that govern such actions, underscoring that even in stable nations, a head of state cannot bypass the legislative process unless explicitly permitted under extraordinary circumstances. Saleh also stressed that any decrees issued must eventually be validated by a legislative body.

These comments come in the wake of controversial decrees from the Presidential Council, including one that annulled a law established by the House of Representatives designed to create a Supreme Constitutional Court in Benghazi. Additionally, the Council issued decrees regarding the organization of a General Conference for National Reconciliation in Sirte, raising further concerns about governance and the balance of power in Libya.

In conclusion, Speaker Aqila Saleh is calling for the swift formation of a new, unified government to replace existing authorities, asserting this is essential to address the urgent needs of the Libyan people. He criticized the Presidential Council for overstepping its authority and highlighted the ineffectiveness of past diplomatic efforts. The political situation remains complex, but Saleh’s proposals suggest a possible shift in the governance structure aimed at stabilizing Libya amidst ongoing strife.

Original Source: libyaobserver.ly