Ghannouchi conceding Brotherhood’s failure in Tunisia

Sara Rashad

The Tunisian scene changes almost on a daily basis, especially after the decisions taken by President Kais Saied on July 25.

Apart from dissolving the parliament and sacking the cabinet, President Saied banned the travel of former MPs and opened an inquiry into possible corruption by former parliament speaker and the head of the Ennahda Movement, the branch of the Muslim Brotherhood in Tunisia, Rached Ghannouchi.

On August 12, Ghannouchi recognized the failures that caused anger against his movement and the Tunisian political elite to increase on the streets.

Series of concessions

In an interview with the Turkish state-owned, Anadolu Agency, Ghannouchi offered a series of political concessions.

“A politician who does not listen to his people is arrogant or deaf,” Ghannouchi said.

“Ennahda announces with humility that it is open to a radical review if necessary,” he added.

He noted that his movement had received the message of the Tunisian people.

“With all courage, we will subject ourselves to a process of strict criticism,” he added.

Ghannouchi acknowledged the existence of popular anger because of the failure of the Tunisian revolution to open the door for economic and social successes.

He added that the members of the public are also angry at the conduct of some politicians, including Islamist politicians.

He said his country’s democratic experience is still nascent, which means that shortcomings are totally expected.

Deep compliance

Ghannouchi tacitly acknowledged the involvement of some politicians in corruption, for the first time.

He agreed with the priorities stipulated by President Saied.

Nevertheless, the former parliament speaker said these failures do not justify any retreat from democracy.

He said corruption within a democratic system is far easier to manage than a dictatorial political system.