On Saturday Libya held its first nationwide election in decades. Despite isolated incidents of violence in the eastern part of the country, international observers reported that the election was well organized and orderly. It is estimated that voter turnout was around 60 %.
“Libyan voters – men and women alike – showed great courage by protecting polling stations against those who tried to disrupt the voting,” said Mr. Støre.
“The Libyan Election Commission has done an impressive job. Libya has now taken another important step towards a democratic society,” said Mr. Støre.
Norway supports the Carter Center’s international election observation mission to Libya.