Libyan Parliamentary Deputies Reject Unilateral Actions, Uphold Institutional Law

In a significant move reinforcing parliamentary procedure, the First and Second Deputies of Libya’s House of Representatives, Fawzi Al-Nweiri and Misbah Douma, have publicly rejected any appointments or procedural actions not formally approved by the Council’s presidency. Their joint statement underscores a deepening institutional rift within the country’s governing bodies.

A Stand for Due Process

The two senior officials declared that all assignments and endorsements conducted without the formal knowledge and approval of the Council’s presidency are considered legally null and void. This firm stance directly challenges the validity of any backchannel decisions, reinforcing their commitment to established legal frameworks.

“We confirm the cancellation of any decisions or assignments within the House of Representatives that were not formally presented,” the deputies stated, explicitly rejecting the practice of individual sign-offs. This raises a critical question: can a fractured parliament effectively govern? Their answer is a clear emphasis on the authority of law and institutional unity over personal political maneuvering.

Controversy Over Presidential Notation

The deputies’ declaration came as a direct response to an action by House of Representatives President, Aguila Saleh. He had annotated their official correspondence with the phrase, ‘Filed but not considered.’ Al-Nweiri and Douma condemned this notation as entirely inappropriate for the context of parliamentary work.

They argued that such a sign-off might be suitable for private affairs but has no place in a parliamentary system governed by strict procedural and legal rules. This incident highlights the ongoing power struggles and procedural disagreements that continue to hamper Libya’s political stability.

Unity Against Fragmentation

In their statement, the deputies issued a stark warning against any attempts to fragment the presidency of the House of Representatives or drag it into internal conflicts. They affirmed that the Council would remain united in its decisions and responsibilities, presenting a front against divisive tactics.

“State institutions are not managed by individual intentions or personal actions,” they stressed, “but rather according to the law and the spirit of discipline and national responsibility.” This principle serves as the bedrock of their argument, positioning institutional integrity against the volatility of individual political will.

Reaffirming National Commitment

Concluding their public message, Al-Nweiri and Douma reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to their national duties and respect for state institutions. They made it clear that institutional work, not personal desire, would remain the gold standard for performance within the House of Representatives.

“Institutions are not managed by desires or individuals,” they noted, “but are entrusted to serve all Libyans.” This final point encapsulates their core belief: that the path to a stable and functional Libyan state lies through robust, law-governed institutions that transcend the influence of any single political figure.

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