Washington, DC – Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Dean Phillips, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia, issued the following statement following the sudden arrest of Tunisia’s opposition leader, Rachid al-Ghannouchi:  

“Tunisia’s recent arrests of political figures, forcible closures of political party offices, and bans on free assembly of certain political groups are blatant attacks on free speech and association. These actions undermine principles enshrined in Tunisia’s constitution that its civil society has fought for since 2011. We condemn these actions and call for the release of political prisoners.  Respect for democratic norms and the rule of law are central to a strong U.S.-Tunisian relationship."

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