Tunisia: President Beji Caid Essebsi dies following hospitalization on July 25

Event

The office of the Presidency has announced that President Beji Caid Essebsi has died on Thursday, July 25, after being hospitalized in the early morning (local time). The speaker of Tunisia's parliament, Mohamed Ennaceur, will take over Essebsi's duties until a new president is elected. Tunisia currently has no constitutional council to oversee a transition and to officialize the acting presidency.

Associated political rallies and commemorative gatherings are possible in the coming hours and days, particularly in Tunis

Context

President Essebsi was admitted to the hospital a few hours before the announcement of his death, for a third time within five weeks, following a severe illness in late June.

The upcoming presidential elections were set to take place on Sunday, November 17.

Advice

Individuals in Tunis are advised to monitor developments, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. Individuals are also advised to avoid all street gatherings associated with the news of the President's death.