US says it shares concerns of Tunisians on processes of drafting controversial constitution
Washington, DC, US (PANA) - The US says it shares concerns expressed by many Tunisians that the process of drafting the new constitution limited the scope for genuine debate and also that the new constitution could weaken the country's democracy and erode respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The US Secretary of State, Mr, Antony Blinken, said in a press statement on Thursday that an "inclusive and transparent reform process" is crucial going forward to begin to restore the confidence of the millions of Tunisians who either did not participate in the referendum or opposed the new constitution.
"In particular, we urge the swift adoption of an inclusive electoral law that facilitates the broadest possible participation in legislative elections planned for December, including among those who opposed or boycotted the constitutional referendum."
Mr Blinken said the US also commends the dynamic role played by Tunisia’s vibrant civil society in building an inclusive political future.
Tunisians voted by 94.6% to approve the draft constitution in a referendum on 25 July but turnout was only 30.5%
Mr. Blinken said Tunisia has experienced "an alarming erosion of democratic norms" over the past year and reversed many of the people’s hard-won gains since the Arab Spring in 2011.
The top US diplomat said since 25 July, 2021, the suspension of constitutional governance by President Kais Saied, the consolidation of executive power in his hands, and weakening of independent institutions have raised deep questions about Tunisia’s democratic path, both in the country and internationally.
Mr. Blinken said the US, in coordination with its allies and partners, has and will continue to use all tools at its disposal to support the Tunisian people in "forging a democratic and accountable government that preserves the space for free debate and dissent, safeguards the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all, promotes long-term prosperity, respects judicial independence and the rule of law, and establishes the checks and balances critical to the health of all democracies".
-0- PANA MA 29July2022
