Ben Jaafar decides suspension of national constituent assembly

President of the National Constituent Assembly (NCA) Mustapha Ben Jaafar announced the suspension of works of the NCA until the opening of a comprehensive national dialogue involving all political factions. Speaking Tuesday in Wataniya 1 TV channel shortly before fast-breaking, Ben Jaafar noted that the assembly proved today that it was able to continue its works with the majority. "It will not do it before the return of all parties to the negotiating table." The President of NCA called, in particular, on the Tunisian General Labour Union to assume its role and continue national dialogue, recalling the historical weight of the  labour organisation before and after the Revolution. He praised the efforts of the UGTT to bring views closer while keeping the same distance from all parties. Ben Jaafar also criticised parties that "have opted for street mobilisation to the detriment of the national interest, at a time when Tunisia is facing a crisis resulting from the assassination of politicians and military." This represents according to Mr. Ben Jaafar the beginning of division and discord among Tunisians. "I am not accusing anyone, and I understand that all political players have good intentions towards this people," said the NCA President. He expressed his refusal to see the NCA be held hostage by politicians. "Part of the opposition and the public opinion fears that the Troika and particularly the Ennahdha party puts hand on the state structures and turn the next elections in their favour," he admitted. "In turn, the Troika fears a counter-revolution and a new slide into tyranny," he added. In conclusion, Ben Jaafar said that the people is tired of politics and instability and cannot endure more terrorist operations in the country