UN Chief Commends Tunisia's Adoption of New Constitution

UN Chief Commends Tunisia's Adoption of New Constitution

New York, Jan 27 2014 - Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today commended "another historic milestone" in Tunisia's democratic transition with the adoption of the country's new constitution.

In a statement from his spokesperson, Mr. Ban encouraged Tunisia's political actors to ensure the next steps of the transition are conducted in a "peaceful, inclusive and transparent manner".

Tunisia's Parliament today adopted the constitution, the country's first since massive public demonstrations ousted President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in January 2011.

The actions of Tunisian citizens sparked the wave of popular uprisings across North Africa and the Middle East that became known as the Arab Spring, which also led to the toppling of regimes in Egypt, Libya and Yemen.

Mr. Ban "believes Tunisia's example can be a model to other peoples seeking reforms", his spokesperson said.

In today's statement, the Secretary-General noted that sstrengthening the democratic institutions created by the constitution and related laws will help promote accountability and the rule of law with full respect to human rights.

He stressed, however, that close attention must also be paid to ensuring economic growth is achieved in an equitable and sustainable manner.

The top UN official also reiterated the Organization's support and encouraged the international community to increase its support for the country's efforts to consolidate its democracy and to address the economic challenges ahead.

On Saturday, Mr. Ban spoke to Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki by telephone to congratulate him on the "progress achieved in Tunisia's transitional process", his spokesperson had said.

For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news

ENDS

© Scoop Media