AHMED ATEF (CAIRO)
Experts and political analysts hold diverse opinions on the extension of the state of emergency law in Tunisia. Despite their differences, most agree on its importance considering the current security conditions and rising concerns about terrorist activities threatening the country.
The decision is widely regarded as crucial for protecting the Tunisian people and institutions and reinforcing the country’s stability.
Tunisian strategic expert and security analyst Faisal Al-Sharif remarked that the extension of the state of emergency is a practice that dates back to 1978. It is routinely renewed for one to three-month periods, according to the regulations issued after the first general strike by the Tunisian General Labour Union at that time. The move has gained heightened importance following the recent neutralisation of terrorists in the Chaambi mountains.
In statements to Aletihad, Al-Sharif explained that the state of emergency empowers the executive authority to take extraordinary measures against those threatening internal stability, colluding with foreign entities, or engaging in corruption. From a legal point of view, it significantly expands the executive’s powers.
The Tunisian presidency’s decision to extend the state of emergency throughout January is seen by politicians as a preventive strategy against potential terrorist attacks or the eruption of violent protests, student, union, and political disturbances similar to those experienced in previous years.
Conversely, Tunisian political analyst Monther Thabet views the one-month renewal as routine, particularly following the terrorist incidents of 2015. The extension aims to bolster the army, national security, and national guard in their counter-terrorism efforts, he said.
Thabet highlighted the recent successes of security forces in apprehending and dismantling terrorist cells, asserting that the state of emergency does not impinge on public freedoms or basic rights, as protests and activities of associations proceed as usual.
He emphasised the necessity of this measure in addressing the resurgent terrorism threat in North Africa and the Sahel region, particularly in northern Mali, with the resurgence of Al-Qaeda and Ansar al-Din. Therefore, it aims to enhance the fieldwork of the security forces to confront terrorist groups and preempt and thwart any operations, the expert added.
In contrast, Tunisian political analyst Bassel Tarjuman holds a different view. He believes that Tunisia’s current security progress and stability do not justify extending the state of emergency unless new security information suggests otherwise.
Tarjuman pointed out the economic implications, noting that such measures could deter both local and foreign investors, exacerbating Tunisia’s economic recession and investment hesitancy. He mentioned the departure of foreign companies due to an unfavourable investment climate, compounded by the state of emergency exacerbating investor fears.