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Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Wednesday, 25 January 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 February 2023. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Wednesday, 8 February 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


Tunisia: Elections

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will make representations to the government of Tunisia on (1) preserving the independence and constitutional authority of the Independent High Authority for Elections, and (2) seeking to ensure that the Independent High Authority for Elections leader, Sami Ben Slama, is allowed full defence in respect of the charges pending against him.

Answer

The UK is aware of the changes to the Independent High Authority for Elections. The UK believes that checks and balances are needed in all political systems, as core components of a functioning, transparent democracy. This is something that we have regularly raised with the Tunisian Government since 25 July 2021.

The UK is aware of the legal case being brought against Sami Ben Sala. We regularly raise respect for human rights and due legal process with the Tunisian Government. All legitimate political actors should be able to operate, and the judiciary must carry out its work independently and transparently. We regularly raise human rights with the Tunisian authorities, and will continue to do so.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL5080
Session
2022-23
Subjects
Elections Tunisia
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk