Libyan elections may face delay

The head of Libya’s National Transitional Council said an election for the national assembly could be delayed, holding up a landmark vote in the transformation of the country following the fall of Muammar al-Gaddafi.

The election for an assembly that will draw up a new constitution was originally set for 19 June. But Mustafa Abdel Jalil said yesterday he thought the vote could be delayed by appeals from people who have been blocked from standing as candidates. Candidates must pass a vetting process, which they may appeal in court.

Mr Jalil said: “This appeal process will perhaps result in a postponement of the elections.”

The last day for candidate registration was 23 May and is followed by a ten-day appeal process. The candidates then need time to campaign and the High National Election Commission must have time to print ballot papers.