The session held 20 months after Tunisia’s president dissolved the former parliament
On Monday, Tunisia’s newly elected parliament convened for the first time.
The opening session was presided over by the oldest lawmaker, Saleh Al-Mubaraki, 70, who emphasized the importance of “joint work with the executive authority within the framework of state unity.”
“Our country is facing serious challenges, and we must work collaboratively and positively with the executive authority within the framework of state unity,” he said.
Al-Mubarki leads the Nidaa Tounes movement, which was founded by late President Beji Caid Essebsi and won legislative and presidential elections in 2014.
The session on Monday came 20 months after Tunisian President Kais Saied suspended the former parliament, fired the prime minister, and assumed executive authority in a move denounced as a “coup” by opponents.
Saied maintains that his actions were intended to “save” the country after years of crisis.