Tunisia’s president rules out talks with hostile forces

By Yosra Ouanes and Hamdi Yildiz

TUNIS, Tunisia (AA) - Tunisia’s president categorically ruled out talks with hostile forces Wednesday, saying there will only be dialogue and reconciliation with the righteous and patriots.

Kais Saied made the comments while meeting with the families of security guards who lost their lives in terrorist operations, according to the president’s website.

“We will definitely not have a dialogue with those who want to strike the state. There will be no dialogue with anyone except the righteous and honorable. No recognition of anyone but the patriots,” said Saied, speaking at the event.

Criticizing the opposition, he said: "They are afraid of the referendum and national consultation because they are afraid of the will of the people."

Tunisia has been in the throes of a deep political crisis since July 25, 2021 when Saied dismissed the government, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority in a move decried by his opponents as a “coup.”

The North African country is also going through a severe economic crisis aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

Last month, Saied dissolved the suspended parliament shortly after lawmakers convened a plenary session to overturn his measures.