We were concerned about the absence of a comprehensive and transparent process in the referendum

Today, Wednesday 27 July 2022, Lord Tariq Mahmood Ahmed, Minister for South and Central Asia and North Africa at the UK Foreign Office considered the engagement of key stakeholders including political parties, civil society organisations, trade unions. and the media – and genuine public debate is necessary to address the political and economic challenges ahead and support the legitimacy and validity of structural reforms in Tunisia. As he said, the UK is committed to a specific, inclusive and transparent process with its partners the US and the EU. At the same time, Lord confirmed his country’s understanding of calls for change through the constitutional referendum process.

Lord Ahmed urged the Tunisian authorities to respect the separation of powers, establish adequate checks and balances, establish a comprehensive and transparent electoral law, and promote full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, pending legislative elections scheduled for later this year.

“The UK has always been a constructive and honest partner for Tunisia and the Tunisian people. We will remain so at this critical moment and in the years to come,” his statement read.

R.O