clear

Creating new perspectives since 2009

Tunisia labour union warns against dismantling the state

September 17, 2021 at 9:31 am

Protesters gather upon calling of Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT) to stage a demonstration demanding that the ministries fulfill their reform promises for the region in Kairouan, Tunis on December 03, 2020. [ Yassine Gaidi – Anadolu Agency]

The Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT) called on President Kais Saied to expedite forming a mini-government to confront economic, social and health issues, and ensure the continuity of the state to fulfill its commitments.

On 25 July, Kais Saied cited Article 80 of the constitution to dismiss Prime Minister Hicham Mechichi, freeze the work of parliament for 30 days, lift the immunity of ministers, and appoint himself as head of the executive authority until the formation of a new government. He has yet to assign a new prime minister.

The UGTT stressed the need to “accelerate forming a mini-government that provides appropriate environments to overcome the crisis and represents the Tunisian state in all international forums.”

In a statement, the union – the largest labour organisation in Tunisia – warned that “any delay in this path will only deepen the crisis, dismantle and threaten the state.”

The majority of parties rejected Saied’s decisions, which were extended indefinitely at the end of August, with some considered them a “coup against the constitution.

The union stressed “the need to determine the end of the exceptional period and determine the necessary subsequent measures to get out of the political crisis and from the general shutdown of most of the state’s bodies.”

He explained that this would be fulfilled “according to a consultative and participatory vision that would later contribute to discussing an alternative political vision and developing a national vision for a system of government that meets popular and political legitimacy.”

READ: Tunisia is heading for another fight over the constitution