The Tunisian technology ministry has stated that his country has launched a wide-ranging national consultation process that will help in drafting a new constitution.
The announcement called on citizens to send suggestions through electronic platforms from January 1 to March 20 as part of a reform package pushed by President Kais Saied, who is seeking to bolster his authority.
Electoral, economic, financial, social, developmental, health, education and cultural affairs are among eligible topics included.
The technology ministry stated that rhe consultation, dubbed “Your opinion, our decision,” is initially targeting youth centers through an electronic platform across the country’s 24 regions. The minister added: “The platform will be open to everyone from January 15.”
Since only 45 percent of Tunisian homes are connected to the internet, citizens will alternatively be able to give their views in local committees.
Critics have said the move underlines the “populist” approach of the president, who won elections in 2019 with a landslide 73 percent of votes.
The constitutional referendum is planned for July 25, exactly a year after Saied removed the government, suspended parliament and seized wide-ranging powers.
His power grab was initially supported by a part of Tunisians, amid frustration surrounding repeated deadlocks within the fractious legislature in recent years.
In early December, the president later took steps to rule by decree, pledging to press on with reforms to the political system.
