Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in central Tunis to protest against recent measures taken by Tunisian President Kais Saied where he has granted himself new judicial powers in a decree which allows him to fire judges and block promotions and appointments. Expressing anger against the Tunisian president, around 2000 people demonstrated in the capital with many waving flags and shouting slogans.

Tunisian President Kais Saied grants himself new judicial powers, cements power over judiciary

'Coup d'etat': Tunisians protest against President Saied

Tunisia's lagoon farmers cling on as sea level rises, therefore threatening the man made island with the change in climate.

Climate change threatens man-made island in Tunisia

A tunnel has been discovered near French ambassador's residence in Tunisia prompting an anti-terrorism investigation, said Tunisian Interior Ministry said on Wednesday. The tunnel was found to have been dug from a house frequented by a known extremist.

French diplomats did not comment immediately.

Tunisian security forces have thwarted most militant plots in recent years and have grown better at responding to those that occur say Western diplomats.

Last such major attack happened in 2015. At the time, militants killed many people in two separate assaults at a museum in Tunis and a beach resort in Sousse.

Residence of the French ambassadorn is located in a walled compound in an upscale compound of La Marsa. There are private houses on both sides.

A tunnel has been discovered near French ambassador's residence in Tunisia prompting an anti-terrorism investigation, said Tunisian Interior Ministry said on Wednesday.

A tunnel has been discovered near French ambassador's residence in Tunisia prompting an anti-terrorism investigation, said Tunisian Interior Ministry said on Wednesday. The tunnel was found to have been dug from a house frequented by a known extremist. French diplomats did not comment immediately. Tunisian security forces have thwarted most militant plots in recent years and have grown better at responding to those that occur say Western diplomats. Last such major attack happened in 2015. At the time, militants killed many people in two separate assaults at a museum in Tunis and a beach resort in Sousse. Residence of the French ambassadorn is located in a walled compound in an upscale compound of La Marsa. There are private houses on both sides.

Tunisia: Tunnel found near French ambassador's home, anti-terror probe on

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises.

State television broadcast a swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet headed by Najla Bouden, the North African country's first ever female prime minister.

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In her first public speech since her nomination, Bouden said Monday that "the fight against corruption will be the most important aim" of the new government.

She also vowed to "raise living standards" of Tunisians and "restore their faith in the state".

But Saied has significantly pared back the powers of her office and will technically head the administration himself.

The president on July 25 sacked the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and granted himself judicial powers in moves that opponents have termed a coup.&nbsp;

Saied, a former legal academic, has repeatedly criticised the constitution Tunisia adopted in 2014 which brought in a mixed parliamentary-presidential system, three years after a revolution that overthrew veteran dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The president named Bouden, a geologist, as premier on September 29, more than two months after sacking the administration of Hichem Mechichi and removing lawmakers' immunity.

In a speech following Monday's ceremony, Saied reiterated that his moves were constitutional in light of "imminent peril" facing Tunisia.

He said he had acted to "save the Tunisian state from the clutches of those who lurk at home and abroad, and from those who see their office as booty or as a means to loot public funds".

He also vowed to "cleanse the judiciary".

'Drift from democracy'&nbsp;

Saied, elected on an anti-system ticket in late 2019, seized an array of powers amid a socio-economic crisis aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although his July measures enjoyed significant support from a public tired of political parties seen as self-serving and incompetent, civil society groups have warned of a drift away from democracy.

The new cabinet was announced a day after at least 6,000 people demonstrated in central Tunis against Saied's power grab.

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Many have seen Saied's moves as a blow to the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party that has dominated Tunisia's post-revolution politics, but some demonstrators in Tunis on Sunday also voiced support for Moncef Marzouki, who served as president between 2011 and 2014 and now lives in Paris.

Feminist groups have hailed Bouden's nomination as a step forward for women in Tunisia, seen as a pioneer for women's rights in the Arab world.

But many have questioned how much power she will have given that Saied -- who has long opposed gender equality in inheritance laws -- will have the final say in government decisions.

The 63-year-old premier has little political experience and is not known to have economic expertise.

Tunisia is facing a long-running economic crisis, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, with debt running at over 90 per cent of Gross Domestic Product, runaway inflation and an unemployment rate of over 18 per cent.

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises.

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises. State television broadcast a swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet headed by Najla Bouden, the North African country's first ever female prime minister. Also Read | Thousands protest against Tunisia leader with government awaited In her first public speech since her nomination, Bouden said Monday that "the fight against corruption will be the most important aim" of the new government. She also vowed to "raise living standards" of Tunisians and "restore their faith in the state". But Saied has significantly pared back the powers of her office and will technically head the administration himself. The president on July 25 sacked the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and granted himself judicial powers in moves that opponents have termed a coup. Saied, a former legal academic, has repeatedly criticised the constitution Tunisia adopted in 2014 which brought in a mixed parliamentary-presidential system, three years after a revolution that overthrew veteran dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The president named Bouden, a geologist, as premier on September 29, more than two months after sacking the administration of Hichem Mechichi and removing lawmakers' immunity. In a speech following Monday's ceremony, Saied reiterated that his moves were constitutional in light of "imminent peril" facing Tunisia. He said he had acted to "save the Tunisian state from the clutches of those who lurk at home and abroad, and from those who see their office as booty or as a means to loot public funds". He also vowed to "cleanse the judiciary". 'Drift from democracy' Saied, elected on an anti-system ticket in late 2019, seized an array of powers amid a socio-economic crisis aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although his July measures enjoyed significant support from a public tired of political parties seen as self-serving and incompetent, civil society groups have warned of a drift away from democracy. The new cabinet was announced a day after at least 6,000 people demonstrated in central Tunis against Saied's power grab. Also Read | Iraqis to elect new parliament amid deep crisis, apathy Many have seen Saied's moves as a blow to the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party that has dominated Tunisia's post-revolution politics, but some demonstrators in Tunis on Sunday also voiced support for Moncef Marzouki, who served as president between 2011 and 2014 and now lives in Paris. Feminist groups have hailed Bouden's nomination as a step forward for women in Tunisia, seen as a pioneer for women's rights in the Arab world. But many have questioned how much power she will have given that Saied -- who has long opposed gender equality in inheritance laws -- will have the final say in government decisions. The 63-year-old premier has little political experience and is not known to have economic expertise. Tunisia is facing a long-running economic crisis, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, with debt running at over 90 per cent of Gross Domestic Product, runaway inflation and an unemployment rate of over 18 per cent.

Tunisia president appoints new government nearly 3 months after power grab

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue.

A week after thousands demonstrated in support of Saied, the growing number of protesters on each side raises the possibility of Tunisia's political divisions spiralling into street confrontations between the two camps.

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"We will not accept the coup. Enough is enough," said Yassin ben Amor, a protester.

Police blocked the march without violence, as some demonstrators threw plastic bottles.

Saied dismissed the prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority in July in moves his foes call a coup.

Last month he brushed aside much of the constitution, which he said he would appoint a committee to amend, adding that he could rule by decree.

His intervention has cast into doubt the democratic gains made by Tunisians during a 2011 revolution that triggered the Arab Spring uprisings.

He has appointed Najla Bouden Romdhane as prime minister, but she has not yet named a government, an important precursor to any efforts to resolve Tunisia's looming crisis in public finances, though Saied said on Saturday he would do so soon.

Saied said he would initiate a dialogue with the Tunisian people and youth representatives, particularly from the regions, over the future during a meeting on Saturday with interim interior minister Ridha Gharsalaoui.

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Interior Ministry spokesman Khaled Hayouni said the police would deal with protesters from both sides in the same way. "The Tunisian police is a republican police and it does not intervene in any political side," he said.

Any dialogue that does not include major political parties or other established elements of civil society, such as the powerful labour union, would likely prompt more open opposition to his moves.

Western donors, needed to avert a collapse in Tunisia's public finances, have called for an inclusive process to end the crisis period, along with a clear timeline.

With the political manoeuvering over Tunisia's future moving very slowly, Saied has pointed to the street mobilisation to support his position.

Last week more than 8,000 demonstrators rallied in Tunis in support of Saied, Reuters journalists and the state news agency said, while the Interior Ministry said about 5,000 had attended. The next day, Saied said 1.8 million people had come out to back him. 
&nbsp;

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue.

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue. A week after thousands demonstrated in support of Saied, the growing number of protesters on each side raises the possibility of Tunisia's political divisions spiralling into street confrontations between the two camps. Also Read | 'Mind your uterus': Protests erupt in US against anti-abortion laws "We will not accept the coup. Enough is enough," said Yassin ben Amor, a protester. Police blocked the march without violence, as some demonstrators threw plastic bottles. Saied dismissed the prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority in July in moves his foes call a coup. Last month he brushed aside much of the constitution, which he said he would appoint a committee to amend, adding that he could rule by decree. His intervention has cast into doubt the democratic gains made by Tunisians during a 2011 revolution that triggered the Arab Spring uprisings. He has appointed Najla Bouden Romdhane as prime minister, but she has not yet named a government, an important precursor to any efforts to resolve Tunisia's looming crisis in public finances, though Saied said on Saturday he would do so soon. Saied said he would initiate a dialogue with the Tunisian people and youth representatives, particularly from the regions, over the future during a meeting on Saturday with interim interior minister Ridha Gharsalaoui. Also Read | Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil Interior Ministry spokesman Khaled Hayouni said the police would deal with protesters from both sides in the same way. "The Tunisian police is a republican police and it does not intervene in any political side," he said. Any dialogue that does not include major political parties or other established elements of civil society, such as the powerful labour union, would likely prompt more open opposition to his moves. Western donors, needed to avert a collapse in Tunisia's public finances, have called for an inclusive process to end the crisis period, along with a clear timeline. With the political manoeuvering over Tunisia's future moving very slowly, Saied has pointed to the street mobilisation to support his position. Last week more than 8,000 demonstrators rallied in Tunis in support of Saied, Reuters journalists and the state news agency said, while the Interior Ministry said about 5,000 had attended. The next day, Saied said 1.8 million people had come out to back him.

Thousands protest against Tunisia leader with government awaited

At least 8,000 people took to the streets of Tunisia in support of the president Kais Saied, the demonstrators came out to back the president's decision to suspend the parliament and the promise to change the political system.

Tunisia president Kais Saied's power grab divides country

Tunisia has become the first Arab country to appoint a female prime minister, with President Kais Saied naming Najla Bouden Romdhane as the top post.

Najla Bouden Romdhan will be the Arab world's 1st woman leader

The Arab world appears to be undergoing some significant changes, notably in terms of women's empowerment.&nbsp;

Tunisia has become the first Arab country to appoint a female prime minister, with President Kais Saied naming Najla Bouden Romdhane for the top post. 
 
"This is the first time a woman has led a cabinet in Tunisia's history," Saied said during the meeting with Romdhan, which was captured on video from the president's office. 
 
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"To Tunisia and Tunisian women, it is a great honour."&nbsp;

According to reports, the country’s President, Kais Saied, asked her to form a government with limited executive clout. 
 
She is a professor of geophysics at the National School of Engineers in the capital Tunis. In 2011, she was appointed director-general in charge of quality at the Ministry of Higher Education. 
 
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<img alt="President Saied said the appointment honoured Tunisian women. (AFP Photo)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc4829e5-c00d-4098-aba0-e691403d52e5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/afp-image.jpeg" /> 
 
President Saied said the appointment honoured Tunisian women. (AFP Photo)

On July 25, the President dismissed Hichem Mechichi's administration, halted parliament, lifted MP immunity, and assumed control of the judiciary.

The public opinion on the President's decision was split, with some Tunisians supporting him and others opposing it.

The President’s office released a video of Trump meeting with Bouden in his office and assigning her the task of proposing a cabinet "over the next few hours or days."

As she takes office in a time of crisis, all eyes are on the university lecturer from Kairouan.&nbsp;

Political scientist Slaheddine Jourchi welcomed the nomination of a female premier but warned that Tunisia faces daunting economic and political challenges.

"When we look at the CV of this lady, who is a geologist without other specialisations or experience in sensitive roles, I don't know how well she will be able to tackle these enormous, complex issues," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Arab world appears to be undergoing some significant changes, notably in terms of women's empowerment. Tunisia has become the first Arab country to appoint a female prime minister, with President Kais Saied naming Najla Bouden Romdhane for the top post.

The Arab world appears to be undergoing some significant changes, notably in terms of women's empowerment. Tunisia has become the first Arab country to appoint a female prime minister, with President Kais Saied naming Najla Bouden Romdhane for the top post. "This is the first time a woman has led a cabinet in Tunisia's history," Saied said during the meeting with Romdhan, which was captured on video from the president's office. Also read | Women in Arab countries find themselves torn between opportunity and tradition "To Tunisia and Tunisian women, it is a great honour." According to reports, the country’s President, Kais Saied, asked her to form a government with limited executive clout. She is a professor of geophysics at the National School of Engineers in the capital Tunis. In 2011, she was appointed director-general in charge of quality at the Ministry of Higher Education. Also read | For the first time, Saudi women stand guard in Mecca during haj President Saied said the appointment honoured Tunisian women. (AFP Photo) On July 25, the President dismissed Hichem Mechichi's administration, halted parliament, lifted MP immunity, and assumed control of the judiciary. The public opinion on the President's decision was split, with some Tunisians supporting him and others opposing it. The President’s office released a video of Trump meeting with Bouden in his office and assigning her the task of proposing a cabinet "over the next few hours or days." As she takes office in a time of crisis, all eyes are on the university lecturer from Kairouan. Political scientist Slaheddine Jourchi welcomed the nomination of a female premier but warned that Tunisia faces daunting economic and political challenges. "When we look at the CV of this lady, who is a geologist without other specialisations or experience in sensitive roles, I don't know how well she will be able to tackle these enormous, complex issues," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Najla Bouden Romdhan: Tunisia becomes the first Arab country to have a woman Prime Minister

Tunisian President Kais Saied named Najla Bouden Romdhane, a little-known university engineer with World Bank experience, as prime minister on Wednesday (September 29) nearly two months after he seized most powers in a move his foes call a coup.

Najla Bouden Romdhane, Tunisia's first woman prime minister, will take office at a moment of crisis, with the democratic gains won in a 2011 revolution in doubt and as a major threat looms to public finances.

A geological engineer, Romdhane was responsible for implementing World Bank projects at the education ministry, but she has little experience of government.

Speaking in a video published online, Saied said her appointment honored Tunisian women and asked her to propose a cabinet in the coming hours or days "because we have lost a lot of time."

The new government should respond to the demands and dignity of Tunisians in all fields, including health, transport and education, he added.

Saied dismissed the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed wide executive powers in July and has been under growing domestic and international pressure to form a new government.

Last week he brushed aside much of the constitution, saying he could rule by decree and control the government himself, during an emergency period that has no defined endpoint.

Tunisia faces a rapidly looming crisis in public finances after years of economic stagnation were aggravated by the coronavirus pandemic and political infighting. Government bonds are under pressure and the cost of insuring against their default has hit a record high.

The new government will have to move very quickly to seek financial support for the budget and debt repayments after Saied's power grab in July put talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on hold.

However, after Saied's announcement last week that the government will be responsible to the president and that he can select or sack cabinet ministers, the role of prime minister will be less important than in previous administrations.

Most of Tunisia's previous political elite, including most parties in the suspended parliament, have said they oppose Saied's power grab.

Tunisian President Kais Saied named Najla Bouden Romdhane, a little-known university engineer with World Bank experience, as prime minister on Wednesday (September 29) nearly two months after he seized most powers in a move his foes call a coup.

Tunisian President Kais Saied named Najla Bouden Romdhane, a little-known university engineer with World Bank experience, as prime minister on Wednesday (September 29) nearly two months after he seized most powers in a move his foes call a coup. Najla Bouden Romdhane, Tunisia's first woman prime minister, will take office at a moment of crisis, with the democratic gains won in a 2011 revolution in doubt and as a major threat looms to public finances. A geological engineer, Romdhane was responsible for implementing World Bank projects at the education ministry, but she has little experience of government. Speaking in a video published online, Saied said her appointment honored Tunisian women and asked her to propose a cabinet in the coming hours or days "because we have lost a lot of time." The new government should respond to the demands and dignity of Tunisians in all fields, including health, transport and education, he added. Saied dismissed the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed wide executive powers in July and has been under growing domestic and international pressure to form a new government. Last week he brushed aside much of the constitution, saying he could rule by decree and control the government himself, during an emergency period that has no defined endpoint. Tunisia faces a rapidly looming crisis in public finances after years of economic stagnation were aggravated by the coronavirus pandemic and political infighting. Government bonds are under pressure and the cost of insuring against their default has hit a record high. The new government will have to move very quickly to seek financial support for the budget and debt repayments after Saied's power grab in July put talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on hold. However, after Saied's announcement last week that the government will be responsible to the president and that he can select or sack cabinet ministers, the role of prime minister will be less important than in previous administrations. Most of Tunisia's previous political elite, including most parties in the suspended parliament, have said they oppose Saied's power grab.

Tunisia leader picks first woman as PM at moment of crisis

Several hundred protesters marched through central Tunis to demand a return to parliamentary democracy after a July power grab by President Kais Saied.

Protesters march on the streets of Tunisia over president’s seizure of powers

Tunisian&nbsp;President&nbsp;Kais Saied has announced plans to form a new government and said the&nbsp;constitution&nbsp;should&nbsp;be&nbsp;amended, weeks after he sacked his premier and suspended parliament in moves his critics called a coup.

Speaking to two television channels after a late Saturday evening stroll in central Tunis, Saied said he would form a new government "as soon as possible" after selecting "the people with the most integrity". But he declined to give a specific timeline.

Saied also told the television stations that "the Tunisian people rejected the&nbsp;constitution". He added that such charters are "not eternal" and stated that "we can introduce amendments to the text".

His comments, which confirmed earlier media speculations on his plans, were dismissed by the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party, the largest bloc in parliament.

The party in a statement expressed "its categorical rejection of the attempts of some parties that are hostile to the democratic process... to push for choices that violate the rules of the&nbsp;constitution".&nbsp;

Ennahdha added that it would oppose "an intended suspension of the application of the&nbsp;constitution&nbsp;and a change to the political system, possibly through a referendum".

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The influential UGTT trade union confederation, which has so far backed Saied, also rejected any "suspension of the&nbsp;constitution" and called for early legislative elections so that a new parliament could look into potential constitutional changes.

Dire living conditions&nbsp;

Saied, a legal theorist and former law professor, was elected in 2019 and has billed himself as the ultimate interpreter of the&nbsp;constitution.

He invoked that power on July 25 to fire the prime minister, freeze parliament and strip MPs of their immunity, and assume all executive powers.

His power grab came amid chronic legislative infighting that had crippled governance. It was followed by a sweeping anti-corruption drive that has included detentions, travel bans and house arrests of politicians, businessmen and judicial officials.

Saied has yet to appoint a new government or reveal a roadmap towards normalisation, despite repeated demands by political parties.

His moves have been criticised by judges and opponents, in particular Ennahdha.

But some Tunisians, exasperated by their political class and its perceived corruption, impunity and failure to improve living standards more than a decade since the country's protests launched the Arab Spring, see them as a necessary evil.

The chants of "Dignity!" and "Work!" that filled the air during the revolution have again started to sound at demonstrations.

In images posted around midnight on the Tunisian presidency's Facebook page, Saied was seen walking down the capital's Bourguiba Avenue as a crowd sang the national anthem, before he stopped to speak with the TV channels.

Self-immolation

Earlier that day on the same central thoroughfare, a man had set himself on fire and later died of his burns -- a desperate act that followed another self-immolation a week before protesting living conditions&nbsp;

According to Tunisian media reports, the man who died Saturday was struggling with economic issues and had come to Tunis from Djerba to seek solutions to his plight.

The deaths recall that of the street vendor who burned himself alive on December 17, 2010 and launched both&nbsp;Tunisia's popular revolution and the wider Arab Spring that toppled several autocratic leaders in the region.

Tunisia, hailed as a rare democratic success story in the Middle East and North Africa, was struggling with dire economic woes and the Covid-19 pandemic before being plunged into the latest political crisis.

Saied's comments came a day after he received in Tunis the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell who expressed the bloc's concerns over the power grab.

"I communicated to the&nbsp;president&nbsp;Europe's apprehensions about the preservation of democratic gains in&nbsp;Tunisia," Borrell said after talks with Saied.

"The free exercise of legislative power and the resumption of parliamentary activity are part of these gains and must be respected," he added.

Earlier this month, diplomats from the G7 nations -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US -- called on Saied to return&nbsp;Tunisia&nbsp;to "a constitutional order".

Tunisian President Kais Saied has announced plans to form a new government and said the constitution should be amended, weeks after he sacked his premier and suspended parliament in moves his critics called a coup.

Tunisian President Kais Saied has announced plans to form a new government and said the constitution should be amended, weeks after he sacked his premier and suspended parliament in moves his critics called a coup. Speaking to two television channels after a late Saturday evening stroll in central Tunis, Saied said he would form a new government "as soon as possible" after selecting "the people with the most integrity". But he declined to give a specific timeline. Saied also told the television stations that "the Tunisian people rejected the constitution". He added that such charters are "not eternal" and stated that "we can introduce amendments to the text". His comments, which confirmed earlier media speculations on his plans, were dismissed by the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party, the largest bloc in parliament. The party in a statement expressed "its categorical rejection of the attempts of some parties that are hostile to the democratic process... to push for choices that violate the rules of the constitution". Ennahdha added that it would oppose "an intended suspension of the application of the constitution and a change to the political system, possibly through a referendum". Also read | People in Madrid protest against rise in homophobic attacks The influential UGTT trade union confederation, which has so far backed Saied, also rejected any "suspension of the constitution" and called for early legislative elections so that a new parliament could look into potential constitutional changes. Dire living conditions Saied, a legal theorist and former law professor, was elected in 2019 and has billed himself as the ultimate interpreter of the constitution. He invoked that power on July 25 to fire the prime minister, freeze parliament and strip MPs of their immunity, and assume all executive powers. His power grab came amid chronic legislative infighting that had crippled governance. It was followed by a sweeping anti-corruption drive that has included detentions, travel bans and house arrests of politicians, businessmen and judicial officials. Saied has yet to appoint a new government or reveal a roadmap towards normalisation, despite repeated demands by political parties. His moves have been criticised by judges and opponents, in particular Ennahdha. But some Tunisians, exasperated by their political class and its perceived corruption, impunity and failure to improve living standards more than a decade since the country's protests launched the Arab Spring, see them as a necessary evil. The chants of "Dignity!" and "Work!" that filled the air during the revolution have again started to sound at demonstrations. In images posted around midnight on the Tunisian presidency's Facebook page, Saied was seen walking down the capital's Bourguiba Avenue as a crowd sang the national anthem, before he stopped to speak with the TV channels. Self-immolation Earlier that day on the same central thoroughfare, a man had set himself on fire and later died of his burns -- a desperate act that followed another self-immolation a week before protesting living conditions According to Tunisian media reports, the man who died Saturday was struggling with economic issues and had come to Tunis from Djerba to seek solutions to his plight. The deaths recall that of the street vendor who burned himself alive on December 17, 2010 and launched both Tunisia's popular revolution and the wider Arab Spring that toppled several autocratic leaders in the region. Tunisia, hailed as a rare democratic success story in the Middle East and North Africa, was struggling with dire economic woes and the Covid-19 pandemic before being plunged into the latest political crisis. Saied's comments came a day after he received in Tunis the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell who expressed the bloc's concerns over the power grab. "I communicated to the president Europe's apprehensions about the preservation of democratic gains in Tunisia," Borrell said after talks with Saied. "The free exercise of legislative power and the resumption of parliamentary activity are part of these gains and must be respected," he added. Earlier this month, diplomats from the G7 nations -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US -- called on Saied to return Tunisia to "a constitutional order".

Tunisia's president says constitution should be amended

Tunisia&nbsp;should swiftly&nbsp;return&nbsp;to its "democratic&nbsp;path", a top White House official on Saturday told President Kais Saied, days after his shock power grab that included suspending parliament.

In an hour-long call with Saied, President Joe Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan noted support for "Tunisian democracy based on fundamental rights, strong institutions and a commitment to&nbsp;the rule of law", according to a White House statement.

Saied on July 25 sacked premier Hichem Mechichi and suspended parliament for 30 days. He ordered a graft crackdown targeting 460 businessmen and an investigation into alleged illegal funding of political parties.

The president's surprise move has plunged&nbsp;Tunisia&nbsp;into political turmoil.

The US statement said the call "focused on the critical need for Tunisian leaders to outline a swift&nbsp;return&nbsp;to&nbsp;Tunisia's&nbsp;democratic&nbsp;path".

"This will require rapidly forming a new government, led by a capable prime minister to stabilise&nbsp;Tunisia's economy and confront the COVID-19 pandemic," it added.

On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis marked by soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

Tunisia should swiftly return to its "democratic path", a top White House official on Saturday told President Kais Saied, days after his shock power grab that included suspending parliament.

Tunisia should swiftly return to its "democratic path", a top White House official on Saturday told President Kais Saied, days after his shock power grab that included suspending parliament. In an hour-long call with Saied, President Joe Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan noted support for "Tunisian democracy based on fundamental rights, strong institutions and a commitment to the rule of law", according to a White House statement. Saied on July 25 sacked premier Hichem Mechichi and suspended parliament for 30 days. He ordered a graft crackdown targeting 460 businessmen and an investigation into alleged illegal funding of political parties. The president's surprise move has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil. The US statement said the call "focused on the critical need for Tunisian leaders to outline a swift return to Tunisia's democratic path". "This will require rapidly forming a new government, led by a capable prime minister to stabilise Tunisia's economy and confront the COVID-19 pandemic," it added. On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis marked by soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

US urges Tunisia to return to 'democratic path'

Tunisian&nbsp;security&nbsp;forces&nbsp;on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned&nbsp;President&nbsp;Kais&nbsp;Saied's power grab as a "military&nbsp;coup", his party said.

The&nbsp;president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil.

"It is a&nbsp;military&nbsp;coup," independent&nbsp;MP&nbsp;Yassine Ayari said on Facebook after the&nbsp;president&nbsp;last Sunday suspended parliament and sacked the premier.

Ayari, 30, is a vocal critic of authorities who has had many run-ins with the law in past years.

He was sentenced to six months in prison in 2015 for defaming the army and was handed a three-month jail sentence in 2018 for criticising the&nbsp;military.

His party, Hope and Labour, said he was arrested by members of the&nbsp;president's&nbsp;security&nbsp;team who did not provide any&nbsp;arrest&nbsp;warrant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-presidency-sacks-head-of-national-tv-channel-401347">Also read |&nbsp;Tunisian presidency sacks head of national TV channel</a>

Ayari's wife said on Facebook that his detention was "violent".

There was no immediate confirmation from the&nbsp;president's office or prosecutors on the&nbsp;arrest.

His opponents accuse him of having staged a "coup", but&nbsp;Saied&nbsp;has said his actions are justified under the constitution which allows the head of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat".

In a Facebook post, Ayari said the&nbsp;president's actions represented "a reversal of the constitution... with the use of the army".

Saied&nbsp;has also declared a crackdown on corruption, accusing 460 businessmen of embezzlement.&nbsp;

On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis including soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

Tunisian security forces on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned President Kais Saied's power grab as a "military coup", his party said. The president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil.

Tunisian security forces on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned President Kais Saied's power grab as a "military coup", his party said. The president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil. "It is a military coup," independent MP Yassine Ayari said on Facebook after the president last Sunday suspended parliament and sacked the premier. Ayari, 30, is a vocal critic of authorities who has had many run-ins with the law in past years. He was sentenced to six months in prison in 2015 for defaming the army and was handed a three-month jail sentence in 2018 for criticising the military. His party, Hope and Labour, said he was arrested by members of the president's security team who did not provide any arrest warrant. Also read | Tunisian presidency sacks head of national TV channel Ayari's wife said on Facebook that his detention was "violent". There was no immediate confirmation from the president's office or prosecutors on the arrest. His opponents accuse him of having staged a "coup", but Saied has said his actions are justified under the constitution which allows the head of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat". In a Facebook post, Ayari said the president's actions represented "a reversal of the constitution... with the use of the army". Saied has also declared a crackdown on corruption, accusing 460 businessmen of embezzlement. On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis including soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

Tunisian MP critical of president's power grab arrested: party

The&nbsp;Tunisian&nbsp;presidency&nbsp;fired the&nbsp;head&nbsp;of the&nbsp;national&nbsp;television&nbsp;channel&nbsp;on Wednesday after two guests were briefly banned from entering its studios to take part in a programme.

The dismissal of Wataniya's CEO comes after president Kais Saied suspended parliament and sacked the prime minister on Sunday, in what opponents have labelled a coup.

On Monday, Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera said police had forced its Tunis office to close, adding to fears that civil liberties and press freedom were at risk in the fledgling democracy.&nbsp;

The sacking of Wataniya's president&nbsp;Lassaad Dahech came hours after a journalism union representative and an activist were blocked from entering the&nbsp;channel's offices on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT union, said she was stopped at the entrance by a security agent who was waiting for authorisation from the&nbsp;channel's management to allow her in. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pictures-from-jasmine-revolution-to-parliament-suspension-10-years-of-tunisia-since-its-arab-spring-revolt-400693">Also read |&nbsp;Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt</a>

Human rights activist Bassem Trifi, who was also stopped from entering, said he had been told it was not Wataniya's decision.

"The CEO of Wataniya told me he had received instructions from a military official to not let guests enter the&nbsp;television&nbsp;studios," he said.

But the ministry of defence and the president's office said they had not given any such instructions.

A few hours later, a statement from the president's office said Saied had issued a decree relieving Dahech of his responsibilities and instructing Awatef Dali to take over the role temporarily.

Saied has said his suspension of parliament and subsequent actions are justified under the constitution, which allows the&nbsp;head&nbsp;of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat".

He has insisted he will protect civil liberties.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, he also issued decrees sacking a long list of senior government officials, including the army's chief prosecutor.

The Tunisian presidency fired the head of the national television channel on Wednesday after two guests were briefly banned from entering its studios to take part in a programme.

The Tunisian presidency fired the head of the national television channel on Wednesday after two guests were briefly banned from entering its studios to take part in a programme. The dismissal of Wataniya's CEO comes after president Kais Saied suspended parliament and sacked the prime minister on Sunday, in what opponents have labelled a coup. On Monday, Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera said police had forced its Tunis office to close, adding to fears that civil liberties and press freedom were at risk in the fledgling democracy. The sacking of Wataniya's president Lassaad Dahech came hours after a journalism union representative and an activist were blocked from entering the channel's offices on Wednesday. Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT union, said she was stopped at the entrance by a security agent who was waiting for authorisation from the channel's management to allow her in. Also read | Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt Human rights activist Bassem Trifi, who was also stopped from entering, said he had been told it was not Wataniya's decision. "The CEO of Wataniya told me he had received instructions from a military official to not let guests enter the television studios," he said. But the ministry of defence and the president's office said they had not given any such instructions. A few hours later, a statement from the president's office said Saied had issued a decree relieving Dahech of his responsibilities and instructing Awatef Dali to take over the role temporarily. Saied has said his suspension of parliament and subsequent actions are justified under the constitution, which allows the head of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat". He has insisted he will protect civil liberties. On Wednesday, he also issued decrees sacking a long list of senior government officials, including the army's chief prosecutor.

Tunisian presidency sacks head of national TV channel

Opponents of Tunisia's President Kais Saied have issued a warning against an autocratic regime in the country. They have called for early elections after the President sparked a crisis by suspending parliament.

Tunisia: President Saied sacked the PM & dismissed Parliament

A day after Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi was ousted, Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked defence minister Ibrahim Bartaji and acting justice minister Hasna Ben Slimane.

Watch:

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The move follows protests against the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic as troops marched into Tunis to restore order. The political crisis has been heightened as&nbsp;coronavirus deaths climbed&nbsp;to over 18,000 in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pictures-from-jasmine-revolution-to-parliament-suspension-10-years-of-tunisia-since-its-arab-spring-revolt-400693">Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt</a>

President Saied said he had "taken the necessary decisions to save Tunisia, the state and the Tunisian people". Saied had declared that the Parliament will be suspended for the next 30 days due to "imminent danger".

Clashes erupted on the streets of Tunisia after Saied dismissed Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi. Justice minister Hasna Ben Slimane was also the government spokesman.

The political crisis has been heightened amid deadlock and disputes between Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi and lawmakers as Saied invoked emergency powers under the constitution to dismiss PM Mechichi.

Amid the deteriorating situation, the Biden administration urged Tunisia to adhere to "democratic principles"&nbsp;while the French foreign ministry called "on all of the country's political forces to avoid any form of violence and to preserve the country's democratic gains."

(With inputs from Agencies)

A day after Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi was ousted, Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked defence minister Ibrahim Bartaji and acting justice minister Hasna Ben Slimane.

A day after Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi was ousted, Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked defence minister Ibrahim Bartaji and acting justice minister Hasna Ben Slimane. Watch: The move follows protests against the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic as troops marched into Tunis to restore order. The political crisis has been heightened as coronavirus deaths climbed to over 18,000 in the country. Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt President Saied said he had "taken the necessary decisions to save Tunisia, the state and the Tunisian people". Saied had declared that the Parliament will be suspended for the next 30 days due to "imminent danger". Clashes erupted on the streets of Tunisia after Saied dismissed Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi. Justice minister Hasna Ben Slimane was also the government spokesman. The political crisis has been heightened amid deadlock and disputes between Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi and lawmakers as Saied invoked emergency powers under the constitution to dismiss PM Mechichi. Amid the deteriorating situation, the Biden administration urged Tunisia to adhere to "democratic principles" while the French foreign ministry called "on all of the country's political forces to avoid any form of violence and to preserve the country's democratic gains." (With inputs from Agencies)

After dismissing PM, Tunisia president sacks defence minister

Tunisia: Police used tear gas to disperse some demonstrators throwing projectiles at officers and made several arrests. Clashes also took place in several other towns, notably in Nabeul, Sousse, Kairouan, Sfax and Tozeur.

What is happening in Tunisia?

The sacking of Tunisia's leaders by President Kais Saied is the latest step along a bumpy road to democracy since 2010. Watch the Timeline of Tunisia through a decade of struggling democracy.

Timeline of Tunisia's democracy since 2010

The President of Tunisia Kais Saied is at the centre of the country's biggest crisis. The president has taken over the control of the country after suspending PM & parliament. How did a law professor become Tunisia's most powerful man?

Tunisia's President at centre of turmoil

Tunisia's President dismissed the government and froze the parliament on Sunday, prompting massive protests. President Kais Saied said he would assume executive authority with the assistance of a new prime minister.

Tunisia's President dismisses government, freezes parliament prompting protests

After mass protests erupted in Tunisia, on Sunday, the President has sacked the Prime Minister and suspended the parliament. Anger over the government's handling of a recent spike in COVID cases has added to general unrest over the nation's economic and social turmoil.

Tunisia President sacks Prime Minister, suspends parliament after protests erupt in country

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy.&nbsp;

On 17 December 2010, 26-year-old Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire to protest against the police and triggered an uprising.

Here is a timeline of the events that have unfolded since:

The Spark of the Jasmine Revolution 
 
<img alt="Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c4333af-28ec-4695-9c8b-62680c840ea1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/afp.JPG" /> 
(AFP Photo) 
 
Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi was a Tunisian street seller who set himself on fire on December 17, 2010, in Ben Arous, Tunisia, sparking the Tunisian Revolution and the Arab Spring movement against dictatorial regimes.

He set himself on fire in protest against the confiscation of his goods and the harassment and humiliation he was subjected to by a municipal official and her aides.&nbsp;

He died of his injuries on January 4, 2011.

The end of Ben Ali's rule 
 
<img alt="Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali and his wife Leila (AFP Photo)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1dbb3896-55c6-4da2-8545-b7d775fc2156" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ben.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
On January 14, ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali departs after weeks of rioting in which 338 people were killed, bringing an end to his 23-year reign.

In 2019, he died in exile.

He was the region's first leader to fall victim to the Arab Spring uprisings, which swept the region like wildfire.&nbsp;

Victory for Islamists

In October 2011, Tunisia's first free election saw the Islamist group Ennahdha win 89 of 217 seats in a new assembly.

It elected former opposition leader Moncef Marzouki as president in December.

Attacks, unrest

In April 2012, police clashed with thousands of jobless protesters in the southwestern mining belt.

More violent demonstrations followed in June and August, with jihadists also staging attacks.

A series of strikes and demonstrations impacted industry, public services, transport and business, with unrest mostly concentrated in the economically marginalised interior.

Opposition leaders killed 
 
<img alt="Chokri Belaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11192721-0057-49d2-85bd-a27136aeca7c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chokri%20Belaid.jpg" /> 
 
A file photo of Chokri Belaid. (AFP Photo)

In February 2013, prominent leftist opposition leader Chokri Belaid was assassinated in Tunis.&nbsp;

In July, fellow leftist Mohamed Brahmi was also shot dead.

Islamic State (IS) jihadists claimed both killings, which fueled a crisis.

2014 Tunisian parliamentary election

A new constitution was established in January 2014.

The Islamists were&nbsp;ousted from power, and a technocratic administration was&nbsp;formed.

The secular Nidaa Tounes party, led by Beji Caid Essebsi, won parliamentary elections in October and formed a coalition with Ennahdha.

Essebsi won Tunisia's first free presidential election two months later.

Terrorist attacks in Tunisia (2015-2016)

In 2015, IS extremists claimed responsibility for three assaults in Tunisia, killing 72 people, largely foreign tourists and security personnel, at the Bardo museum in Tunis and a beach resort. 
 
<img alt="Bardo museum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2301e75-d679-4823-8c3e-1af2bac1dd57" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bardo%20museum%20attack.JPG" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Jihadists attacked security installations in a town near the Libyan border in 2016, killing 20 people, seven of whom were civilians.

New protests and huge political unrest

After the death of a young unemployed man during a demonstration in January 2016, a fresh wave of protests began.

After the implementation of an austerity budget in January 2018, protests erupted.

Ennahdha won the most seats in the legislative elections in October 2019, but it fell far short of the 109 needed to govern. 
 
<img alt="political unrest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2c0f9c-9afa-4e30-939a-cdc985ec5cec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9GB79Y.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Kais Saied, a conservative scholar with no prior political experience, was elected president a week later.

MPs elected a technocratic government in September 2020.

Tunisia has had nine governments in the 10 years since the revolution, some of which only lasted a few months, obstructing the reforms needed to revive the country's ailing economy.&nbsp;

The Tunisian president suspends parliament, dismisses PM

On July 26, 2021, following a day of protests against the ruling party, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the suspension of the country's parliament and the dismissal of Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi.

Saied's activities are described by Ennahdha as a "coup d'etat against the revolution and the constitution."&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Tunisian president" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="625f1e68-cfe0-4bb7-a1c7-dfb8e4fc57fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9GC2ZP.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Thousands of Tunisians had marched in numerous cities earlier in the day, condemning government failings and catastrophic coronavirus rates.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy.

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy. On 17 December 2010, 26-year-old Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire to protest against the police and triggered an uprising. Here is a timeline of the events that have unfolded since: The Spark of the Jasmine Revolution (AFP Photo) Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi was a Tunisian street seller who set himself on fire on December 17, 2010, in Ben Arous, Tunisia, sparking the Tunisian Revolution and the Arab Spring movement against dictatorial regimes. He set himself on fire in protest against the confiscation of his goods and the harassment and humiliation he was subjected to by a municipal official and her aides. He died of his injuries on January 4, 2011. The end of Ben Ali's rule (AFP Photo) On January 14, ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali departs after weeks of rioting in which 338 people were killed, bringing an end to his 23-year reign. In 2019, he died in exile. He was the region's first leader to fall victim to the Arab Spring uprisings, which swept the region like wildfire. Victory for Islamists In October 2011, Tunisia's first free election saw the Islamist group Ennahdha win 89 of 217 seats in a new assembly. It elected former opposition leader Moncef Marzouki as president in December. Attacks, unrest In April 2012, police clashed with thousands of jobless protesters in the southwestern mining belt. More violent demonstrations followed in June and August, with jihadists also staging attacks. A series of strikes and demonstrations impacted industry, public services, transport and business, with unrest mostly concentrated in the economically marginalised interior. Opposition leaders killed A file photo of Chokri Belaid. (AFP Photo) In February 2013, prominent leftist opposition leader Chokri Belaid was assassinated in Tunis. In July, fellow leftist Mohamed Brahmi was also shot dead. Islamic State (IS) jihadists claimed both killings, which fueled a crisis. 2014 Tunisian parliamentary election A new constitution was established in January 2014. The Islamists were ousted from power, and a technocratic administration was formed. The secular Nidaa Tounes party, led by Beji Caid Essebsi, won parliamentary elections in October and formed a coalition with Ennahdha. Essebsi won Tunisia's first free presidential election two months later. Terrorist attacks in Tunisia (2015-2016) In 2015, IS extremists claimed responsibility for three assaults in Tunisia, killing 72 people, largely foreign tourists and security personnel, at the Bardo museum in Tunis and a beach resort. (AFP Photo) Jihadists attacked security installations in a town near the Libyan border in 2016, killing 20 people, seven of whom were civilians. New protests and huge political unrest After the death of a young unemployed man during a demonstration in January 2016, a fresh wave of protests began. After the implementation of an austerity budget in January 2018, protests erupted. Ennahdha won the most seats in the legislative elections in October 2019, but it fell far short of the 109 needed to govern. (AFP Photo) Kais Saied, a conservative scholar with no prior political experience, was elected president a week later. MPs elected a technocratic government in September 2020. Tunisia has had nine governments in the 10 years since the revolution, some of which only lasted a few months, obstructing the reforms needed to revive the country's ailing economy. The Tunisian president suspends parliament, dismisses PM On July 26, 2021, following a day of protests against the ruling party, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the suspension of the country's parliament and the dismissal of Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi. Saied's activities are described by Ennahdha as a "coup d'etat against the revolution and the constitution." (AFP Photo) Thousands of Tunisians had marched in numerous cities earlier in the day, condemning government failings and catastrophic coronavirus rates. (With inputs from agencies)

Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt

After years of war in Libya, Tunisian traders celebrated the reopening of the border with their oil-rich North African neighbour as a positive sign they hoped would stimulate economic growth.

In the hardscrabble Tunisian coastal town of Ben Guerdane, some 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Libya's frontier, merchant Jaafar Ben Ali said it was a big relief.

"Now that the war (in Libya) is over, and that the borders are open, it is much easier," said Ben Ali, who crosses to Libya to buy Turkish-made blankets. "I do a round-trip in a day."

Tunisia's economy has lurched from crisis to crisis since the country's 2011 revolution, most recently due to the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown measures.

But it was also hit by the impact of war next door in Libya, where a decade of conflict raged ever since the 2011 uprising that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-orders-investigation-into-ransomware-attack-that-targetted-1000-businesses-395642">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden orders investigation into ransomware attack that targetted 1,000 businesses</a>

One United Nations study estimated the&nbsp;Libyan crisis was "responsible for 24 per cent of the deceleration of economic growth" in Tunisia from 2011-2015.

That was equivalent to a loss of $880 million per year, or two per cent of Tunisia's GDP, the UN said.

Smugglers

The town of Ben Guerdane, in Tunisia's under-developed and impoverished southeastern region, felt the impact harder than most.

For years, Tunisian authorities had turned a blind eye to smuggling, partly because of the dire economic situation in the border region.

But in 2016, after a jihadist attack claimed by a Libyan branch of the Islamic State group, Tunisia imposed stricter controls, sparking protests.

In 2018, Libyan authorities closed the border for more than six weeks to rein in the smuggling of fuel and other items, again triggering demonstrations in Ben Guerdane.

In 2019, trade took another blow, when fighting in Libya raged close to the border.&nbsp;

Then, just as violence in Libya subsided last year, the border was shut for eight months to stem the spread of Covid-19.

The consequences were "catastrophic", Ben Guerdane mayor Faathi Aaboud said, adding that the town's "revenues in 2020 were cut in half".

Now Tunisian traders now are hoping for better times ahead.

In March, a new Libyan unity government was sworn in, and in June, Libya's coastal road -- linking Tunisia in the west to Egypt in the east -- reopened after two years of being closed due to fighting.

Colourful blankets and shimmering curtains made in Turkey are back on sale in the markets of Ben Guerdane, alongside household appliances and tyres from China or South Korea.

'Right path'

In May, Tunisian Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi visited the Libyan capital seeking to boost economic cooperation.

TunisAir became the first foreign carrier to resume flights to Libya since the 2011 conflict, with talks ongoing to establish a sea ferry.

"We are moving on the right path," said Anis Jaziri, a prominent Tunisian entrepreneur who heads the Tunisia Africa Business Council.

"But we hope that the situation in Libya will remain stable."

However, Tunisian economist Ezzedine Saidane warned&nbsp;a political crisis in Tunis could undermine the country's trade efforts.

Authorities, he said, "don't have a Libya strategy".

The challenges are not over, as Libya has once again closed its border for two weeks following a surge of coronavirus cases in Tunisia.

After years of war in Libya, Tunisian traders celebrated the reopening of the border with their oil-rich North African neighbour as a positive sign they hoped would stimulate economic growth.

After years of war in Libya, Tunisian traders celebrated the reopening of the border with their oil-rich North African neighbour as a positive sign they hoped would stimulate economic growth. In the hardscrabble Tunisian coastal town of Ben Guerdane, some 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Libya's frontier, merchant Jaafar Ben Ali said it was a big relief. "Now that the war (in Libya) is over, and that the borders are open, it is much easier," said Ben Ali, who crosses to Libya to buy Turkish-made blankets. "I do a round-trip in a day." Tunisia's economy has lurched from crisis to crisis since the country's 2011 revolution, most recently due to the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown measures. But it was also hit by the impact of war next door in Libya, where a decade of conflict raged ever since the 2011 uprising that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Also read | Joe Biden orders investigation into ransomware attack that targetted 1,000 businesses One United Nations study estimated the Libyan crisis was "responsible for 24 per cent of the deceleration of economic growth" in Tunisia from 2011-2015. That was equivalent to a loss of $880 million per year, or two per cent of Tunisia's GDP, the UN said. Smugglers The town of Ben Guerdane, in Tunisia's under-developed and impoverished southeastern region, felt the impact harder than most. For years, Tunisian authorities had turned a blind eye to smuggling, partly because of the dire economic situation in the border region. But in 2016, after a jihadist attack claimed by a Libyan branch of the Islamic State group, Tunisia imposed stricter controls, sparking protests. In 2018, Libyan authorities closed the border for more than six weeks to rein in the smuggling of fuel and other items, again triggering demonstrations in Ben Guerdane. In 2019, trade took another blow, when fighting in Libya raged close to the border. Then, just as violence in Libya subsided last year, the border was shut for eight months to stem the spread of Covid-19. The consequences were "catastrophic", Ben Guerdane mayor Faathi Aaboud said, adding that the town's "revenues in 2020 were cut in half". Now Tunisian traders now are hoping for better times ahead. In March, a new Libyan unity government was sworn in, and in June, Libya's coastal road -- linking Tunisia in the west to Egypt in the east -- reopened after two years of being closed due to fighting. Colourful blankets and shimmering curtains made in Turkey are back on sale in the markets of Ben Guerdane, alongside household appliances and tyres from China or South Korea. 'Right path' In May, Tunisian Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi visited the Libyan capital seeking to boost economic cooperation. TunisAir became the first foreign carrier to resume flights to Libya since the 2011 conflict, with talks ongoing to establish a sea ferry. "We are moving on the right path," said Anis Jaziri, a prominent Tunisian entrepreneur who heads the Tunisia Africa Business Council. "But we hope that the situation in Libya will remain stable." However, Tunisian economist Ezzedine Saidane warned a political crisis in Tunis could undermine the country's trade efforts. Authorities, he said, "don't have a Libya strategy". The challenges are not over, as Libya has once again closed its border for two weeks following a surge of coronavirus cases in Tunisia.

Tunisia hopes Libya stability could bring economic relief

Despite having Africa’s highest number of reported deaths per capita, Tunisia has ended its one-week lockdown.

Lat year initially, thanks to a sweeping six-week lockdown, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Coronavirus</a> cases in Tunisia were low. Borders were closed, only essential activity was allowed, these precautions appeared to have halted the spread of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> virus. &nbsp;But now, according to Our World in Data figures, since easing that lockdown cases have increased manifold, with Tunisia reporting the highest daily reported infections and deaths in Africa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africas-covid-19-cases-surpass-443-million-africa-cdc-378916">Africa's COVID-19 cases surpass 4.43 million: Africa CDC</a>

According to the US Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, if the current rate of spread continues unchecked, Tunisia’s death toll can reach 50,000 by September. To date, of the 11.7 million population, Tunisia has had at least 11,899 deaths with the reported number of infected people at 327,473.

In Tunisia, Vaccines have been available since March. However, due to high widespread mistrust of the vaccine, even among the healthcare workers, take-up i.e., the number of people opting to get vaccinated is low. Shockingly so far only five people have registered on the Tunisian government’s website.

The situation was made worse by a hidden-camera prank show, which while featuring an Angelina Jolie lookalike invited Tunisia’s celebrities to lead the vaccine initiative, only to then be met with a scene where “recipients” of the vaccine would fall sick and die. WHO also complained about the show, which was broadcasted on former presidential candidate Nabil Karoui owned channel.

One a source of national pride, Tunisia’s health sector is at the risk of collapsing under the weight of this pandemic. &nbsp;According to economists, the African nation’s funding for health has witnessed a steady fall over the years, more so after Islamic State gaining power, due to which cash was diverted towards strengthening the country’s domestic security.

Health workers also staged a three-day strike over the working conditions and pay across the health sector. While, a video footage obtained by Deutsche Welle, a German broadcaster shows patients sleeping on the floors of crowded waiting rooms, while one patient was lying down on top of a cupboard. With the oxygen demand constantly threatening to eclipse the available supply, Oxygen masks are&nbsp;at a premium.

Tunisia’s initial covid response won a lot of applause, but it came at a cost that’s shaping Tunisia’s present policy. “Unemployment has exploded from 15 per cent at the start of 2020 to 17.4 per cent at the end of the year,” said Radhi Meddeb, an economist, adding that the virus has had such a devastating impact on the economy which shrunk by 8.8 per cent during the pandemic, “leaving little if no room for manoeuvre for the government in terms of social support”.

Although the government has offered tax relief and government loans, the economic burden has proven to be too much for the Tunisians. Especially, with much of its workforce made up of daily wagers or day labourers, who are not eligible for government schemes.

With many cafes and restaurants stayed open in defiance of the restrictions, the lifting of lockdown was driven equally by the streets and the MPs.

&nbsp;“This inability to implement public health measures is a reflection of the growing absence of trust in the government, which is in my opinion the most worrying sign.”, said Dr Zied Mhirsi,&nbsp;director of Global Health Strategies.

“Roles and responsibilities are split within different ministry directorates and institutions, and that does not help for quick decision-making. It is also important to note that we have weak contact tracing, testing, monitoring and evaluation capabilities,” he added.

As witnessed in many countries, in Tunisia too, the economic pain of lockdown was seen as a greater risk than the virus, said Youssef Cherif, head of Columbia University’s Global Center in Tunis. “This low public concern has led to an increase in cases and to thousands of deaths in the last few months.

“Those who were directly hit, including my family, feel it, but those who were spared the grief and sorrow of this virus continue to live normally – until they are stricken.”

Despite having Africa’s highest number of reported deaths per capita, Tunisia has ended its one-week lockdown. Lat year initially, thanks to a sweeping six-week lockdown, Coronavirus cases in Tunisia were low.

Despite having Africa’s highest number of reported deaths per capita, Tunisia has ended its one-week lockdown. Lat year initially, thanks to a sweeping six-week lockdown, Coronavirus cases in Tunisia were low. Borders were closed, only essential activity was allowed, these precautions appeared to have halted the spread of the COVID-19 virus. But now, according to Our World in Data figures, since easing that lockdown cases have increased manifold, with Tunisia reporting the highest daily reported infections and deaths in Africa. Also read | Africa's COVID-19 cases surpass 4.43 million: Africa CDC According to the US Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, if the current rate of spread continues unchecked, Tunisia’s death toll can reach 50,000 by September. To date, of the 11.7 million population, Tunisia has had at least 11,899 deaths with the reported number of infected people at 327,473. In Tunisia, Vaccines have been available since March. However, due to high widespread mistrust of the vaccine, even among the healthcare workers, take-up i.e., the number of people opting to get vaccinated is low. Shockingly so far only five people have registered on the Tunisian government’s website. The situation was made worse by a hidden-camera prank show, which while featuring an Angelina Jolie lookalike invited Tunisia’s celebrities to lead the vaccine initiative, only to then be met with a scene where “recipients” of the vaccine would fall sick and die. WHO also complained about the show, which was broadcasted on former presidential candidate Nabil Karoui owned channel. One a source of national pride, Tunisia’s health sector is at the risk of collapsing under the weight of this pandemic. According to economists, the African nation’s funding for health has witnessed a steady fall over the years, more so after Islamic State gaining power, due to which cash was diverted towards strengthening the country’s domestic security. Health workers also staged a three-day strike over the working conditions and pay across the health sector. While, a video footage obtained by Deutsche Welle, a German broadcaster shows patients sleeping on the floors of crowded waiting rooms, while one patient was lying down on top of a cupboard. With the oxygen demand constantly threatening to eclipse the available supply, Oxygen masks are at a premium. Tunisia’s initial covid response won a lot of applause, but it came at a cost that’s shaping Tunisia’s present policy. “Unemployment has exploded from 15 per cent at the start of 2020 to 17.4 per cent at the end of the year,” said Radhi Meddeb, an economist, adding that the virus has had such a devastating impact on the economy which shrunk by 8.8 per cent during the pandemic, “leaving little if no room for manoeuvre for the government in terms of social support”. Although the government has offered tax relief and government loans, the economic burden has proven to be too much for the Tunisians. Especially, with much of its workforce made up of daily wagers or day labourers, who are not eligible for government schemes. With many cafes and restaurants stayed open in defiance of the restrictions, the lifting of lockdown was driven equally by the streets and the MPs. “This inability to implement public health measures is a reflection of the growing absence of trust in the government, which is in my opinion the most worrying sign.”, said Dr Zied Mhirsi, director of Global Health Strategies. “Roles and responsibilities are split within different ministry directorates and institutions, and that does not help for quick decision-making. It is also important to note that we have weak contact tracing, testing, monitoring and evaluation capabilities,” he added. As witnessed in many countries, in Tunisia too, the economic pain of lockdown was seen as a greater risk than the virus, said Youssef Cherif, head of Columbia University’s Global Center in Tunis. “This low public concern has led to an increase in cases and to thousands of deaths in the last few months. “Those who were directly hit, including my family, feel it, but those who were spared the grief and sorrow of this virus continue to live normally – until they are stricken.”

Coronavirus: Tunisia, Africa's worst-hit nation lifts lockdown

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash&nbsp;helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. &nbsp;

Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising.&nbsp;

Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy.&nbsp;

Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview.&nbsp;

He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised.&nbsp;

The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place.&nbsp;

He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest.

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising. Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy. Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview. He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised. The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place. He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies. (With input from agencies)

After her guards banned, Tunisian MP wears helmet, bulletproof vest in parliament  

The director of the first-ever Tunisian film to be tipped for an Oscar has hailed the "historical" nomination and urged the North African country's authorities to support homegrown cinema.

Kaouther Ben Hania's film "The Man Who Sold His Skin" was put forward for best foreign-language film ahead of the April 25 Oscars ceremony in Hollywood.

"It's a historic event, a first for Tunisia," said Ben Hania via phone from France.

"It's a dream come true."

The film, starring Italian actress Monica Bellucci alongside Syrian Yahya Mahyani and Belgian Koen De Bouw, tells the story of a Syrian refugee who allows a tattoo artist to use his back as a canvas in order to get to Europe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-the-shortlisted-films-in-best-international-feature-film-category-370672">Oscars: The shortlisted films in Best International Feature Film category</a>

Ben Hania said she hoped the Oscar nomination would lead to more support for cinema and film-makers in Tunisia.

The French-Tunisian director, 43, was born in the marginalised rural town of Sidi Bouzid which in late 2010 was the site of the events that sparked the Arab Spring uprisings.

She won plaudits at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017 for her feature-length film Beauty and the Dogs, the story of a Tunisian woman who pushes for justice after being raped.

Tunisian cinema, in the doldrums in the early years of the century, was given a boost by the country's 2011 revolution and new-found freedom of speech.&nbsp;

A new generation of screenwriters and directors have since focused their efforts on social and political topics that were long taboo under the dictatorship of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The director of the first-ever Tunisian film to be tipped for an Oscar has hailed the "historical" nomination and urged the North African country's authorities to support homegrown cinema.

The director of the first-ever Tunisian film to be tipped for an Oscar has hailed the "historical" nomination and urged the North African country's authorities to support homegrown cinema. Kaouther Ben Hania's film "The Man Who Sold His Skin" was put forward for best foreign-language film ahead of the April 25 Oscars ceremony in Hollywood. "It's a historic event, a first for Tunisia," said Ben Hania via phone from France. "It's a dream come true." The film, starring Italian actress Monica Bellucci alongside Syrian Yahya Mahyani and Belgian Koen De Bouw, tells the story of a Syrian refugee who allows a tattoo artist to use his back as a canvas in order to get to Europe. Oscars: The shortlisted films in Best International Feature Film category Ben Hania said she hoped the Oscar nomination would lead to more support for cinema and film-makers in Tunisia. The French-Tunisian director, 43, was born in the marginalised rural town of Sidi Bouzid which in late 2010 was the site of the events that sparked the Arab Spring uprisings. She won plaudits at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017 for her feature-length film Beauty and the Dogs, the story of a Tunisian woman who pushes for justice after being raped. Tunisian cinema, in the doldrums in the early years of the century, was given a boost by the country's 2011 revolution and new-found freedom of speech. A new generation of screenwriters and directors have since focused their efforts on social and political topics that were long taboo under the dictatorship of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

Tunisia's film-maker Kaouther Ben Hania hails 'historic' Oscar nomination

A Tunisian court on Wednesday set bail for media mogul and former presidential candidate Nabil Karoui at 10 million dinars ($3.7 million) as he awaits trial on corruption charges that he denies, the court spokesman Mohsen Dali said.&nbsp;

Karoui, the owner of Nessma television channel and head of the Heart of Tunisia political party, the second largest in parliament, was detained in December for a second time for alleged money laundering and tax fraud.&nbsp;

In 2019, Karoui beat most candidates to reach a run-off for the presidency despite spending most of the campaign behind bars. He ultimately lost in a landslide to President Kais Saied.&nbsp;

His Heart of Tunisia party, which came second only to the moderate Islamist Ennahda in a parliamentary election the same year, has joined with it in giving narrow majority support to Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi's government, which has been locked in a power struggle with the president.&nbsp;

Karoui's critics regard him as a corrupt populist wrongfully using his television station and a charity he owns for personal political gain. His supporters view him as a champion of Tunisia's poor and regard his detention as politically motivated.&nbsp;

Tunisia, the only country to emerge with an intact democracy from the 'Arab Spring' revolts a decade ago, has since been plagued by political turmoil and economic hardship.&nbsp;

A Tunisian court on Wednesday set bail for media mogul and former presidential candidate Nabil Karoui at 10 million dinars ($3.7 million) as he awaits trial on corruption charges that he denies, the court spokesman Mohsen Dali said.

A Tunisian court on Wednesday set bail for media mogul and former presidential candidate Nabil Karoui at 10 million dinars ($3.7 million) as he awaits trial on corruption charges that he denies, the court spokesman Mohsen Dali said. Karoui, the owner of Nessma television channel and head of the Heart of Tunisia political party, the second largest in parliament, was detained in December for a second time for alleged money laundering and tax fraud. In 2019, Karoui beat most candidates to reach a run-off for the presidency despite spending most of the campaign behind bars. He ultimately lost in a landslide to President Kais Saied. His Heart of Tunisia party, which came second only to the moderate Islamist Ennahda in a parliamentary election the same year, has joined with it in giving narrow majority support to Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi's government, which has been locked in a power struggle with the president. Karoui's critics regard him as a corrupt populist wrongfully using his television station and a charity he owns for personal political gain. His supporters view him as a champion of Tunisia's poor and regard his detention as politically motivated. Tunisia, the only country to emerge with an intact democracy from the 'Arab Spring' revolts a decade ago, has since been plagued by political turmoil and economic hardship.

Tunisian court sets bail for media mogul Nabil Karoui at $3.7 million

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the February 3 killing of four soldiers in a rugged region of central Tunisia.

According to a report by the SITE Intelligence Group, the soldiers were killed in three blasts ignited by its fighters near Mount Mghila and a "spy" was beheaded separately by IS.

The defence ministry announced the losses the same day, saying the soldiers in "a military unit tasked with carrying out a combing operation of Mount Mghila looking for terrorist elements were killed by a mine" explosion.

Mount Mghila, near the border with Algeria, is adjacent to Mount Chaambi, which is considered a hideout for jihadists.

Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said the incident "will not stop us from pursuing our efforts to fight and defeat terrorism".

IS also said in its Al-Naba digital newspaper that jihadists executed a spy for the army on December 20 near Mount Selloum in the Kasserine region, also central Tunisia.

Authorities said at the time that the victim was a 20-year-old man named Oqba al-Dhibi, identified on local radio as a shepherd tending his flock when he was attacked.

Tunisia has seen a surge in radical Islam since veteran president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted in the country's 2011 revolution.

Tunisia's central mountains are also a hideout for a local branch of jihadist group Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the US monitor of jihadist groups says.

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the February 3 killing of four soldiers in a rugged region of central Tunisia. According to a report by the SITE Intelligence Group, the soldiers were killed in three blasts ignited by its fighters near Mount Mghila and a "spy" was beheaded separately by IS.

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the February 3 killing of four soldiers in a rugged region of central Tunisia. According to a report by the SITE Intelligence Group, the soldiers were killed in three blasts ignited by its fighters near Mount Mghila and a "spy" was beheaded separately by IS. The defence ministry announced the losses the same day, saying the soldiers in "a military unit tasked with carrying out a combing operation of Mount Mghila looking for terrorist elements were killed by a mine" explosion. Mount Mghila, near the border with Algeria, is adjacent to Mount Chaambi, which is considered a hideout for jihadists. Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said the incident "will not stop us from pursuing our efforts to fight and defeat terrorism". IS also said in its Al-Naba digital newspaper that jihadists executed a spy for the army on December 20 near Mount Selloum in the Kasserine region, also central Tunisia. Authorities said at the time that the victim was a 20-year-old man named Oqba al-Dhibi, identified on local radio as a shepherd tending his flock when he was attacked. Tunisia has seen a surge in radical Islam since veteran president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted in the country's 2011 revolution. Tunisia's central mountains are also a hideout for a local branch of jihadist group Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the US monitor of jihadist groups says.

IS claims killing of four Tunisia soldiers, beheading

Tunisian artist Anis Bouchnak is carving smoking pipes from the Native Briar Wood, a craft which has been passed down to him from his earlier generation.

Dying Breed: Tunisian who carves smoking pipes from Briar Wood

Thousands of people took to the streets of Tunisia's capital city Tunis on Saturday people protested against the government and demanded relief from an ongoing economic crisis they demanded release who arrested this year during the protest.

Tension ran high in Tunisia's capital, protesters demand relief from an ongoing economic crisis

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