Libya’s Supreme Judicial Council convened in the capital Tripoli on Thursday after the “successful” election of 12 of its members for a new three-year term.
The Presidential Council of Fayez al-Sarraj’s Government of National Accord (GNA) congratulated the Supreme Judicial Council following what it said were “transparent” elections that should be seen as part of other constitutional measures to set up a civilian state with an independent judiciary.
The statement expressed the Presidential Council’s “confidence in its (Supreme Judicial Council) ability to carry out its tasks.
It said it will support the new council in achieving justice and protecting human rights.
In addition to its 12 elected members, the council has three figures, including its president, appointed by the parliament.
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) also issued a statement, congratulating the new council on the successful election of its members across Libya.
“These transparent elections are an example of democracy and peaceful transfer of power in Libya. They reflect the independence and professionalism of the judiciary, which is a key institution enhancing the rule of law and human rights in Libya. They also serve as a source of hope for the Libyan people during this time of conflict,” it said.
“The mission highly values the existing partnership with the judiciary and looks forward for further cooperation with the new council towards upholding the principles of human rights and rule of law in Libya,” it added.
GNA’s Minister of Justice Mohamed Lamloum also congratulated the new council president and its members, expressing confidence in its ability to make “tireless efforts to improve the judicial system for the service of citizens.”
Several Libyan politicians hailed the council for its ability to distance itself from Libya’s political divisions that have rocked the country since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011.
