Tunisia’s parliament has ratified a new constitution, making it the first since the ousting of President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali in 2011.
According to media reports, the National Constituent Assembly passed the text by 200 votes from 216.
Inside the assembly, there was a sense of joy when the new constitution had been adopted. The parliamentarians also embraced each other.
Historic milestone
The United States of America hailed the agreement as a “historic milestone.”
In a press statement in Washington DC, US Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki said the United States is encouraged that Tunisia’s National Constituent Assembly voted to ratify Tunisia’s new constitution.
Ms. Psaki highlighted that a strong constitution, reached through consultation and debate, is the foundation of a thriving democracy.
“This is a historic moment for the people of Tunisia and represents a significant achievement as Tunisia continues in its political transition.” – Ms. Psaki
Ms. Psaki noted that the US government is looking forward to further steps in the democratic transition, in particular, the swearing-in of a new independent government and setting a date for early elections so that Tunisian citizens can choose their new leaders and determine the country’s future.
She added that the United States continues to believe the Tunisian people can and will achieve their aspirations for a democratic society.
“As a longstanding friend of Tunisia, the United States will continue to support Tunisia’s democratic transition.” – Ms. Psaki
In 2011, a revolution , part of the Arab Sping had resulted in the ousting of autocratic President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and the first free elections in the country were held.
