5. In a country where oil revenues account for approximately 80% of Libya’s gross national product and 97% of exports, the Libyan government faces the dangerous prospect of not being able to meet its financial obligations unless a resolution to this crisis is reached imminently. We believe that the resolution of this crisis, as well as of the many others confronting Libya, through peaceful means is vital to the country’s national interest and its ability to make meaningful progress in its transition. In this context, we also urge all parties to desist from the manipulation of Libya’s resources for political ends.
Mr. President,
6. With regard to the development of new legislation, the adoption of a law on transitional justice remains pending before the plenary of the General National Congress. UNSMIL believes that passage of such a law is vital to helping Libya deal with many of its past tragedies and crimes. It is equally essential in facilitating the difficult process of national reconciliation.
7. The situation of many of the estimated 8,000 conflict-related detainees remains problematic. While the Ministry of Justice has reported a reduction in complaints, reports of deaths in custody torture and other forms of ill-treatment continue to be a source of concern. However, UNSMIL has observed a marked improvement in conditions and treatment of detainees in centres that are effectively under the authority of the ministry of Justice and where there are experienced and trained judicial police officers.
8. There have been new developments regarding the trials of senior members of the Qadhafi regime. Further to the conviction and sentencing to death on 31 July of Ahmed Ibrahim, former Minister of Education and Information, the trials of some 35 defendants, including Saif al-Islam Qadhafi, are expected to commence soon.
9. In this regard, UNSMIL continues to underline the need for a coherent approach to secure acceptable standards in the prosecution of former regime officials, so as to avoid random charges and contribute to establishing a historical record of the crimes committed under the former regime. Ensuring fair trails for former regime officials will test the Libyan judicial institutions in the coming months. The prevailing security situation in the country and the continuing attacks on judges, lawyers and courthouses continue to present a formidable challenge to the authorities.