(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) By Khaled Jabbar
TUNIS, July 14 (KUNA) -- Tunisia is anxiously awaiting the formation of a national unity government, called for by President Beji Caid Essebsi to bring an end to the political/economic crisis.
In an interview with Tunisia's national TV, Essebsi said that government must include the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), the Tunisian Confederation of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts (UTICA), while also changing the current head of the executive authority.
However, the president's call was opposed by other parties, mainly the Popular Front, who withdrew from talks with Essebsi and other parties that resulted in signing the unity government agreement.
Forming the new government is just a matter of time, political analyst Monther Thabit told KUNA on Thursday. The unity government is strongly backed by Ennahda Movement, who supports current Prime Minister Habib Essid. The movement, being the vast majority in the Tunisian parliament, will have the most ministerial positions in the unity government, he added.
He expected the government to execute huge economic reforms, in accordance with demands from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other international organizations. Thabet also expected the government to elect a new PM, in the light of the rising tension between Essebsi and Essid.
On his part, head of the Free Patriotic Union Slim Riahi said agreeing upon Essebsi's initiative to form the government is a road map for Tunisia's future. He also called for replacing all ministers who failed to meet the needs of people, to create a successful government that will last.
Analysts are expecting Tunisia to announce forming the unity government on July 25 on the occasion of the country's Republic Day, to replace the current government led by Essid since beginning of 2015.(end) ksj.rj.ag