New York, February 18, 2026 – The head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya warned that the politicization and division of the judiciary could harm the political process in Libya, especially with the ongoing competition between the Supreme Constitutional Court in the city of Benghazi and the Supreme Court in the city of Tripoli.
In her briefing to the UN Security Council on Wednesday, she stated that the Constitutional Court in Benghazi operates in parallel with the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court in Tripoli, resulting in competition, conflicting rulings, and judicial contradiction. She cautioned that the repercussions of these developments and contradictions threaten the unity of the judiciary and weaken the administration of justice in Libya by disabling the last mechanism that ensures accountability of governments and authorities. She warned that the politicization and division of the judiciary harm the political process, elections, security, and human rights, and threaten the unity of the state.
In her briefing, she also pointed to recent developments concerning the crisis, including rulings issued by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court regarding the unconstitutionality of a number of laws issued by the House of Representatives, and the recent decree issued by the President of the Presidential Council concerning the transfer of the authority to issue the official gazette to the Ministry of Justice in the Government of National Unity.
New York
New York City, originally settled by the Dutch as New Amsterdam in the early 17th century, was later taken by the English and renamed. It grew into a major global port and financial center, becoming a primary gateway for immigrants entering the United States through Ellis Island in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is one of the world’s most influential cities, known for its cultural diversity and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.
United Nations
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after World War II to promote peace, security, and cooperation among nations. It replaced the League of Nations and is headquartered in New York City, with 193 member states working on issues ranging from humanitarian aid to climate change.
Libya
Libya is a North African country with a rich history rooted in ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians and Romans, followed by centuries of Arab and Ottoman influence. In the modern era, it was an Italian colony before gaining independence in 1951, later becoming known for Muammar Gaddafi’s lengthy rule from 1969 until the 2011 revolution. Its cultural sites include the well-preserved Roman ruins of Leptis Magna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Supreme Constitutional Court
The Supreme Constitutional Court is Egypt’s highest judicial body for constitutional matters, established in 1969 and officially inaugurated in 1979. It is responsible for interpreting legislative texts and reviewing the constitutionality of laws and regulations to ensure their alignment with the Egyptian Constitution.
Benghazi
Benghazi is a major city in eastern Libya, historically significant as a center of trade and culture since its founding as the Greek colony of Euesperides. It played a pivotal role in Libya’s modern history, serving as a co-capital and a focal point during the 2011 revolution.
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court of the United States is the highest federal court in the nation, established in 1789 under Article III of the U.S. Constitution. It serves as the final arbiter of federal law and the Constitution, with its landmark decisions shaping American civil rights, governance, and society throughout its history.
Tripoli
Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. Historically, it was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC and later became a significant Roman city, with its old town, the medina, showcasing a rich history of subsequent Arab, Ottoman, and Italian colonial rule.
UN Security Council
The United Nations Security Council is the principal organ of the United Nations charged with maintaining international peace and security. Established in 1945 following World War II, its five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—hold veto power over substantive resolutions.
Constitutional Chamber
The Constitutional Chamber is the highest constitutional court in Costa Rica, established in 1989 as part of the country’s Supreme Court of Justice. Its primary role is to protect constitutional rights and guarantees by reviewing laws and government actions for their constitutionality.
House of Representatives
The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the United States Congress, established by the Constitution in 1789. It is composed of representatives elected from congressional districts, with representation based on state population, and holds primary responsibility for initiating revenue bills and impeaching federal officials.
Presidential Council
The Presidential Council is a governing body established in Libya following the 2011 uprising, intended to serve as a collective head of state. It was created as part of the UN-backed Libyan Political Agreement in 2015 to lead a Government of National Accord and unify the country’s divided institutions.
Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is a key government department responsible for the legal system, law enforcement, and corrections. Its history in many countries often traces back to the 19th century, evolving from earlier offices like the Lord Chancellor’s department in the UK or the Department of Justice’s establishment in the US in 1870.
Government of National Unity
The Government of National Unity (GNU) is a term most notably associated with the post-apartheid transitional government in South Africa, formed in 1994 following the country’s first multiracial elections. It was a coalition government led by Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress (ANC) and included its former political rivals, the National Party and the Inkatha Freedom Party, to foster reconciliation and stability during the democratic transition.
