Stephanie Koury seeks resolution to political standoff

The Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Stephanie Koury, held separate discussions with Khalid Al-Mishri and Mohammed Takala regarding the disputed leadership of the High Council of State (HCS), according to her social media statement Thursday.

In her communications with both contenders for the HCS presidency, Koury expressed concern over deepening internal divisions that she said are hampering the council’s ability to function effectively.

“I urged both parties to pursue a consensual solution, without prejudice to the outcome of the ongoing judicial process,” Koury stated, reaffirming UNSMIL’s commitment to engage with all parties to maintain the council’s unity.

The leadership dispute intensified following Tuesday’s electoral session, convened by Takala, where he secured 55 votes to become president. His opponents, Naima Al-Hami and Idris Abu Fayed, received eight and five votes respectively, with two blank ballots cast.

In a separate development Wednesday, Al-Mishri hosted a meeting where he emphasised his commitment to pursuing legal channels.

Participants at this meeting rejected the validity of Tuesday’s session, describing it as contrary to HCS regulations. Sources present at the meeting indicated that discussions included exploring potential compromise solutions with Takala’s faction.

The High Council of State serves as a key advisory body in Libya’s political structure.

This political impasse comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilise Libya’s governance institutions following years of internal conflict.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​