Western countries call on Tunisia to return to ‘democratic institutions’ | Stories

Leaders of the G7 and EU countries have called for an immediate return to democratic institutions with elected parliament.

Delegates from seven Western countries including the European Union urged Tunisia on Friday to respect “fundamental rights” and set a time for a return to democratic institutions.

Tunisian President Kais Saied on July 25th removed the government, overthrew the parliament and seized control of much of the country, following months of economic and political crisis over the coronavirus.

Four and a half months later, he still did not set a clear timetable for any actions, deepening the uncertainty of the economy and the political turmoil of the 2011 civil war.

In a joint statement on Friday, leaders of the G7 delegations, including the EU, said they were “very supportive of the Tunisian people in their quest for good governance, democracy and transparency”.

“We reiterate the importance of respecting the fundamental rights of all Tunisians, as well as open dialogue with all stakeholders, including various political and organizational statements,” he said.

He called for “a clear period of time for the return to active democratic institutions, the elected parliament is doing a great job”.

“This will ensure that the Tunisian people contribute to the future. We are ready to help Tunisia and its people cope with the challenges ahead,” he added.

Saied’s coup d’état on July 25 received support from many Tunisians who are tired of political parties that appear to be extremely corrupt and unable to solve the country’s economic and social problems.

But since then he has experienced it many demonstrations and the growing number of cases in which he becomes a new autocrat.

Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned of the dangers in civilian cases in military courts.

Meanwhile, negotiations with lenders around the world over the fourth investment over the next 10 years have stalled and concerns are mounting that the country may not be able to repay the loan.