US concerned about democratic path in Tunisia, urges respect for freedom

The US said it was concerned about the democratic path in Tunisia, urging the Tunisian authorities to respect freedom of expression and halt civilian military trials

MENA

1 min read

The New Arab Staff & Agencies

28 March, 2022

Opponents of Kais Saied call his decision to seize power last year a coup, which he denies [Getty- archive]

The United States is concerned about the democratic path in Tunisia, a senior US official said on Monday, urging the Tunisian authorities to respect freedom of expression and halt civilian military trials.

In a statement following a visit to Tunisia, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya stressed the importance of implementing an inclusive political and economic reform process, in coordination with political parties, unions and civil society.

Last summer, Tunisia's President Kais Saied suspended the elected parliament and assumed executive power before brushing aside the Constitution to say he would rule by decree, a move opponents called a coup.

(Reuters)