US diplomat Stephanie Williams, one of the important architects of the ceasefire in Libya in October 2020 and the interim Government of National Unity (GNU), which took office in March 2021, has been re-appointed as the United Nations (UN) Special Envoy for Libya.
The appointment was announced by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
On 23 November, the previous Special Envoy Jan Kubis announced his resignation after 10 months in office. This development drew serious reactions in the country, which was preparing for the presidential elections on December 24.
UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, in a statement regarding Williams’ appointment, stated that Williams has accomplished very important works in the past and that he is happy to accept the return offer and take office again.
In addition to this, in the statement made by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was stated that the appointment of Williams will expand the influence of the UN in Libya, provide support to the institutions and also give the Libyan people the opportunity to go to the polls without hindrance.
