Tunisia to become sixth Khalifat, Ennahda

Ennahda’s secretary general Hamadi Jebali Tunis – Nabil Zaghdod Ennahda’s secretary general Hamadi Jebali who is now openly targeting the country’s premiership has vowed to make Tunisia the sixth Khalifat of the Muslim world. This has angered many within his own party , who have been desperate to shed the image of a radical religious party in favour of a more republican style governing movement.
Jebali has faced harsh criticism from opposition figures who argue that the Islamic party’s results –Octobre 23rd Elections- have embolden the Islamic formation which is now gradually showing ‘its teeth’ and openly aspiring to a more conservative future Tunisia.
His declarations have embarrassed senior figures from the political party which justified Jebali’s call for a Khalifat as aimed at a particular electoral base close to Ennahda. “This declaration, they argue was not part of a political program but a simple speech designed to thank the political base who worked tirelessly in the run up to the elections.”
Samir Dylio, speaking to Arabstoday insisted the party was clear in its aspirations and will respect the fundamentals of the republic and that the movement will embrace all components of Tunisian society and respect the basic tenants of a democratic state.
Fawzi Latency, a member of the executive body of the Renaissance Movement added that Jebali did not intend to transform the republic into a Khalifat and that the party was committed to the rule of law within the parametres of a democratic state.
Ennahdha’s spokesman Fawzi Latence said, "adherence to the principles of the Movement of the Republic and the foundations of the modern civil state are paramount for the party"
Abdul-Latif al-Obeidi, a member of the Political Bureau of the leftist Party of the bloc, currently working in partnership with Ennahdha in government consultations said his party adheres to the principle of a republican system.
In a statement to Tunisian daily La Gazette, Obeidi said the Alliance Party would object strongly to any attempt by any party to jeopardize gains obtained from the revolution.
He equally called Mouldi Fahem, a member of the Political Bureau of the Democratic Progressive Party and the movement of the Renaissance, to monitor parties in a bid to ensure the achievements of the revolution will be upheld.
Mohsen Marzouk, human rights activist and Director General of the Arab Foundation for Democracy insisted Hamadi Jebali needed to speak with one voice to all Tunisians and not taylor his speech to different fractions within society adding that the call for a Khalifat could set a dangerous precedent and impact negatively on the overall community.  Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi, leader of Ennahda, had said during his visit to Egypt’s Tahrir Square that the future of the nation was in establishing the Khalifat.