The Intelligence from The Economist Alight in Tunisia: a democracy in crisis
Jul 27, 2021
Join Roger McShane, The Economist's Middle East editor, and John Hooper, the Vatican correspondent, as they dive into Tunisia's political turmoil. They discuss the president's controversial decision to dismiss the prime minister and suspend parliament, sparking both hope and concern. The conversation shifts to the Vatican's groundbreaking trial involving high-ranking officials charged with serious financial misconduct, potentially unearthing the Church's hidden financial practices. Their insights connect democracy, governance, and accountability in today's shifting landscapes.
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Tunisia's Political Crisis
- Tunisia's president, Kais Saied, dismissed the prime minister and suspended parliament.
- This move followed protests and reflects public disillusionment with the government.
COVID-19 Response Mismanagement
- Tunisia's COVID-19 response mismanagement fueled public anger.
- President Saied's intervention in the health crisis foreshadowed his later actions.
Tunisia's Democratic Dilemma
- Tunisia faces a dilemma: if the president succeeds, Tunisians may resist returning to parliamentary democracy.
- If he fails, it could deepen disillusionment with the system.