Democracy News

Optimistic Future for Post-Revolution Tunisia
October 5, 2011
By: Lulu Buhisi | Printer Friendly

On October 23, Tunisia will hold elections for a constitutional assembly. Voice of America reports over 80 political parties are vying for representation in the new assembly. Tunisia's citizens will partake in choosing their leaders. President Ben Ali ruled Tunisia autocratically for 23 years.

BBC News reports that about 7 million voters will participate in the election of the 217-member assembly that will be tasked with drafting Tunisia's new constitution. The European Union will be sending 150 observers to monitor the process. Michael Gahler, head of the observer mission said, "We have no concerns for the security of the electoral process, and we have a lot of reason to be optimistic."

Reuters reported that Tunisia's Islamist party, Ennahda, is currently leading in the polls. To allay fears of his party's probable victory, Ennahda leader Rachid Ghannouchi said, "All the values of democracy and modernity are respected by Ennahda. We are a party that can find a balance between modernity and Islam." Ghannouchi stressed the importance of Tunisia maintaining good relations with the West and is looking to Turkey as a model of developing the country, particularly for the tourism industry. Ghannouchi hopes to drive the economy through attracting foreign investment and developing the education and telecommunication sectors. The international community is keeping a close eye on the elections. Many fear the interim government may turn its back on the West and not meet the goals for democracy.

Al-Jazeera this week spoke with the new director of the Tunisian Internet Agency (ATI), Moez Chakchouk. The ATI was one of the world's most repressive internet agencies under former President Ben Ali. Today, Chakchouk is helping ATI become an accountable agency, and to use it as an internet exchange point. ATI is currently reforming its censorship guidelines to meet popular demands for democracy and transparency.

For previous news on Tunisia, please see:
Tunisian Political Class Sets the Foundation for the Democratic Process

Sources:
Voice of America – Tunisians begin election process

BBC News – Campaigning begins for landmark elections in Tunisia

Reuters – Don't fear us: Tunisian Islamist leader

Al-Jazeera – Transforming Tunisia's internet agency