Tunisia’s Ennahda calls on all factions to commit to a stable government

Tunisia’s Ennahda movement called on all political factions to commit to the stability of the government, Anadolu Agency reported citing a statement that the movement issued yesterday.

The statement came after the Tunisian General Labour Union criticised the government’s performance and called for a cabinet reshuffle.

Ennahda, which holds 68 seats in the 217-seat parliament, said that there is “a dire need for dialogue” over reforms so as to resolve the country’s economic and social problems.

Tunisia’s trade deficit soared to 15.6 billion Tunisian dinars ($6.49 billion), recording a 23 per cent rise from last year’s deficit, Anadolu Agency reported citing the state-run National Institute for Statistics.

Ennahda also called on the government to accelerate reforms in various sectors so as to “reinforce citizens’ trust in state institutions”.

Read: Tunisia: Concerns over possible postponement of municipal elections

It added that reform should be based on dialogue and consultations, which should include the Tunisian General Labour Union and the Tunisian Confederation of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts.

On Tuesday, signatories to the Carthage Document agreed to form a committee of experts concerned with economic and social reforms that will take priority.

In its statement, Ennahda pointed to the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere for the municipal elections that are set to be held on 6 May, being “an historic stage for reinforcing democratic transition” and enhancing development and institution building.

The party also praised the role played by Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi in fostering dialogue and supporting reconciliation.