The flawed electoral process is not the only challenge faced by Libyans. The presence of heavily armed militias has created a volatile security situation. Also, after undergoing a civil war and decades of repression, there is a need for a comprehensive framework that promotes transitional justice and national reconciliation.
However, despite these challenges, most voters are excited to elect their representatives and to replace the self-appointed NTC, which is viewed as illegitimate and not transparent in its decision-making. Without any real polling, it is hard to project who the winners will be, but the votes will represent the will of the people rather than the whim of a dictator.
The mainstream news fails to highlight the day-to-day realities and strides that ordinary people are achieving under extraordinary circumstances. In an oil-rich country, Libyans are making do with outdated educational and health care facilities, broken roads, and a lack of security. Nevertheless, Libya is laying the groundwork for a transition to democratic and representative government, and I can only remain patient and cautiously optimistic.
My father, a longtime political activist and dissident during the al-Qadhafi regime, is running as an independent in the upcoming elections in the district of Benghazi. Walking with him during my last visit, we both admired one of the official election billboards, which featured a smiling young girl wearing a barrette emblazoned with the slogan, "Vote so you can build my future."
There is a profound sense of self-awareness and motivation among the general population, because they want to create better opportunities. The pulse of Libya's transition can be measured by the enthusiasm of its civil society organizations and youth activists. With scant funds but generous hearts and determination, the creativity and ingenuity represented by many of these activists is truly uplifting, especially for a nation that is practicing civic activism and engagement for the first time. As one of the youth leaders and participants in our training, who will be serving as an official domestic election monitor, commented, "Libya is a baby, and we are teaching her how to walk...she will fall many times, but she will also get up, and that is how she will grow."
