US President Barack Obama praised Sunday's elections in Libya, calling it a “milestone” in the country's transition to democracy. "On behalf of the American people, I extend my congratulations to the people of Libya for another milestone on their extraordinary transition to democracy," Obama said in a statement. “After more than 40 years in which Libya was in the grip of a dictator, today's historic election underscores that the future of Libya is in the hands of the Libyan people,” he added.

One hundred forty two parties are vying for a total of 200 seats in Libya's parliament in elections taking place Sunday. Altogether there were over 3,700 candidates running for seats in the country's 72 districts.