Tunisia

Politics

Main article: Politics of Tunisia

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Tunisia is a republic with a strong presidential system dominated by a single political party.

Related Topics:
Republic - Presidential system

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President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali has been in office since 1987 when he deposed Habib Bourguiba, who had been President since Tunisia's independence from France in 1956. The ruling party, the Democratic Constitutional Rally (RCD), was the sole legal party for 25 years--when it was known as the Socialist Destourian Party (PSD) - and still dominates political life .

Related Topics:
Zine El Abidine Ben Ali - Habib Bourguiba - Democratic Constitutional Rally

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The President is elected to 5-year terms - with virtually no opposition - and appoints a Prime Minister and cabinet, who play a strong role in the execution of policy. Regional governors and local administrators also are appointed by the central government; largely consultative mayors and municipal councils are elected.

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There is a unicameral legislative body, the Chamber of Deputies, which has 182 seats, 20% of which are reserved for the opposition. It plays a growing role as an arena for debate on national policy but never originates legislation and virtually always passes bills presented by the executive with only minor changes.

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The judiciary is nominally independent but responds to executive direction especially in political cases. The military is professional and does not play a role in politics. There are currently six legal opposition parties.

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Tunisia is going for its Municipal Elections in May 2005.

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See also:

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• Foreign relations of Tunisia

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Image:Kelibya.jpg|Kelibya

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Image:Nabeul.jpg|Nabeul

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