The Erosion of Parliamentary Independence in Tunisia: A Shift Toward Executive Control

Tunisian Parliament, since its inception, has faced criticisms for doing little to oppose the executive authority controlled by President Kais Saied. The body has been accused of prioritizing executive draft laws, particularly surrounding loans, leaving its independence compromised. This alignment has starkly limited legislative action and reform, resulting in political stagnation and increasing public discontent regarding socio-economic conditions.

In Tunisia, the executive authority has been increasingly criticized for overshadowing the Parliament, which has largely abandoned its function as an independent legislative body. Since its establishment, the Parliament has faced allegations of failing to provide opposition to the executive, focusing mainly on the passage of draft laws favored by the presidency, notably concerning loans that have raised concerns among members. President Kais Saied’s recent remarks underscore the problematic alignment of the Assembly with the executive’s agenda, especially amidst growing domestic unrest and calls for reform.

President Saied’s statements during his second inauguration bore an intense nationalist sentiment, suggesting that collaboration with foreign entities, such as those perceived as hostile to Tunisia, is intolerable. While he emphasized populism and national sovereignty, his actions—including submitting controversial draft laws and undermining other legislative initiatives—indicate a troubling consolidation of power. Deputy Brahim Bouderbala’s admission regarding electoral law changes highlights the executive influence on legislative processes, resulting in diminished parliamentary independence.

Amidst increasing public dissatisfaction with socio-economic conditions, government reliance on foreign loans—totaling €810 million—has escalated, fundamentally shifting the role of the Assembly towards a mechanism for loan approval rather than substantive reform. Critics, like Deputy Mohamed Ali, argue that Parliament is reduced to a mere facilitator of the executive’s financial agenda, which neglects the broader issues facing Tunisia. This systemic issue is compounded by legislative stagnation on crucial reform proposals.

Despite widespread enthusiasm for legislation against normalization, significant legal changes, such as those affecting electoral regulations, have faced quick pass-through procedures, raising alarms about legislative integrity under pressure from the presidency. As Parliament embraces a subservient role to executive dictates, efforts by some deputies to advocate for reform have proven futile against heavy-handed political maneuvering. Their struggle illustrates the ongoing challenges in reclaiming legislative independence and responding to the will of the Tunisian people.

The behavior of the current assembly mirrors that of previous administrations, as evidenced by unnecessary legislation and a lack of proactive governance. Attempts by deputies to rectify issues such as brain drain or migration reflect a disconnect with public sentiment, leading to mockery rather than support. In this charged political environment, those advocating for meaningful change find themselves encumbered by an entrenched executive influence, raising questions about the future of legislative efficacy in Tunisia.

The Tunisian Parliament has increasingly become subservient to executive authority, relinquishing its independence and failing to fulfill its role as a counterbalance to government power. President Kais Saied’s actions and rhetoric demonstrate an alarming trend towards consolidating power while sidelining critical reforms. This dynamic poses significant challenges for the future of democracy in Tunisia, with growing public dissent over socio-economic issues and calls for parliamentary revitalization. Thus, the struggle for legislative integrity remains pivotal in addressing the aspirations of the populace.

Original Source: nawaat.org