Many in the country were hopeful during the revolt against the Libyan dictator, Muammar Gaddafi, but time has eroded that optimism.
Gaddafi, who registered to run on November 14, was among 25 candidates whose bids have been rejected from running in the December 24 election.
The Gaddafi era is still remembered by many Libyans as one of harsh autocracy, while Saif al Islam has been out of power for so long he may find it difficult to mobilise as much support as major rivals.
Presidential elections are around the corner, but efforts at democratic transition are threatened by both internal and external actors - as well as a history of authoritarianism.
The elections would be a critical step in international efforts to bring stability to Libya, which has been in turmoil since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising against late leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Second Berlin Conference on Libya was aimed to make progress on removing mercenaries and other foreign forces, months after the ceasefire called for their withdrawal, as well as on steps towards securing a December 24 election.
Rumours have circulated in the past, but this time experts believe that Muammar Gaddafi’s son might be making a more serious run than in the past.
Authorities in western Libya free 120 fighters loyal to warlord Khalifa Haftar, the latest move towards reconciliation in a UN-backed peace process aimed at ending years of violence.
After a decade-long catastrophic fighting, the country’s western and eastern forces take the path of reconciliation. But experts doubt it could end the civil war.
New interim Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah pledges to unite divided Libya, preparing to steer the war-torn country to December elections.
After two days of intense debate, Libyan parliament approves the cabinet of interim Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, with 121 of the 132 lawmakers present voting in support.
In western Libya, festive crowds gathered in public squares despite Covid-19 restrictions to watch anniversary fireworks and military parades, but the mood was more sombre in the east.
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