The High National Elections Commission (HNEC), the body responsible for organising Libya's upcoming constituent assembly elections, recently said that some 2.7 million people had registered to vote by a 21 May deadline.

This number, which represents roughly 80% of the eligible electorate nationwide, is higher than many expected and - despite the initial deadline having to be extended due to a lacklustre start - should be seen as a successful first step towards holding the first national elections in more than 60 years. 

More than 2,500 independent candidates have submitted their candidacies to run in the polls, according to the HNEC, as have some 374 political entities. Of the 200 seats in the new body, 120 are reserved for independents and 80 for parties.

The formation of an elected constituent assembly – which will be tasked with drafting a new constitution and overseeing another crucial transition period towards legislative and possibly presidential elections – is seen as a key milestone for the business environment as well as for the development of a new political structure in Libya.

The timing of the elections still remains uncertain, however. The head of the HNEC recently said that he could not confirm the poll would be held on the scheduled date of 19 June, with time running out to organise campaigning for candidates and parties.