US urges Tunisian president Saied to adhere to principles of democracy to end crisis
Washington, DC, US (PANA) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has encouraged Tunisian President Kais Saied to adhere to the principles of democracy and human rights as the country has plunged into a crisis following violent protests in several cities over deteriorating health, economic and social situations.
In a telephone conversation with President Saied on Monday, the US Secretary of State underscored the United States’ strong partnership and continued support for the Tunisian people as they face the dual challenges of an economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The Secretary urged President Saied to maintain open dialogue with all political actors and the Tunisian people," a statement issued by Ned Price, Spokesperson of the US Department of State said.
"He encouraged President Saied to adhere to the principles of democracy and human rights that are the basis of governance in Tunisia," the statement said.
It added that the United States would "continue to monitor the situation and stay engaged".
The United Nations, European Union, Russia, Libya and Arab League have also called for dialogue and respect for the rule of law.
The Libyan Presidential Council on Monday called on all Tunisian parties to resort to dialogue and communication to resolve their differences, an official statement said in Tripoli.
A member of Libya's Presidential Council, Moussa Al-Koni, in a statement said the Council has observed "with great concern" the situation in Tunisia.
He stressed that "what is happening in sister Tunisia is of great importance for Libya, as Tunisia is an example and an important experience for democracy in the region".
President Saeid on Sunday sacked Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi, suspended parliament and imposed a night-time curfew for one month following the violent demonstrations.
He also dismissed the Minister of Defence, Brahim Bartagi and the Minister of Civil Service and Acting Minister of Justice, Hasna Ben Slimane.
He has entrusted the management of current affairs in these ministries to the secretaries general and to those in charge of administrative and financial affairs at the presidency of the government and the ministries concerned, until the appointment of a new head of government and the formation of 'a new cabinet.
The altercations between the supporters of President Saied and those of Ennahdha party and its, the Al-Karma party, on Monday continued at the entrance of Parliament in Bardo, surrounded by the police and military units, which have prevented the Speaker of Parliament, Rached Ghanouchi, from accessing it.
In a statement to the press, Ghanouchi, who is the leader of the Islamist movement, denounced the actions of President Saied as "a coup" saying they are contrary to the provisions of the Constitution.
-0- PANA MA 27July2021
