On Thursday the 25th of July, Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebei passed away and, in accordance with the constitution, the speaker of the parliament, Mohamed Ennaceur became the interim leader. He now has 90 days to organise a presidential election, making it imperative to move the planned November 17 presidential vote forward.
United In Grief
The president’s death coincides with a national holiday, the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Tunisia 62 years ago. Due to his unfortunate passing, this day became one of national mourning.
Former President Caid Essebsi is seen as a unifying figure in Tunisia. In 2014, he became the country’s first democratically elected president. A long-time politician, he served in various key positions since the 1950s, including as Minister of Defense, Minister of Interior, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Speaker of Parliament, Prime Minister and President of the Republic. As president, his stewardship of Tunisia through the transition to democracy and fight for women’s rights have been praised.
Unfinished Business
Essebsi’s death occurred during a time when people had begun to ask questions on who could run for president. In June, the Tunisian parliament passed a controversial law to amend the electoral code, which bans individuals who resort to political advertising and/or lead charity NGOs. For the law to take effect, it requires the president’s assent, which Essebsi did not give before his death.
Constitutional Court: The establishment of a constitutional court in Tunisia has stalled since its creation in the 2014 constitution. Of the twelve members of the court, the parliament, the Supreme Judicial Council and the President are to elect four members each. Parliament failed to elect the first four members of the court, stalling the process. Democracy Speaks explains that “the need for a constitutional court is crucial to determine the constitutionality of actions that might be taken by whoever wins the 2019 parliamentary and presidential elections.”
Equal Rights for women: Essebsi tried to introduce equal inheritance rights for men and women, but faced opposition as the law is seen as contradictory to the Quran. Inheritance rights of women are currently half that of men. There is optimism it may still come to pass, Lamine Ghamni of The Arab Weekly notes that: “There have been hints that secularists will work to revive the initiative to honour Caid Essebsi’s memory.”
Snap Election
The presidential election is now scheduled to hold on September 15. If none of the candidates receive an absolute majority, a second vote will be held a week after.
