Ben Jaafar urges dissident deputies to return to NCA

President of the National Constituent Assembly (NCA) Mustapha Ben Jaafar, on Tuesday, called on deputies who have withdrawn from the assembly to join their colleagues, saying "there is no other way than dialogue and consensus to overcome the crisis." "We are facing a difficult situation and a dangerous turning point six months after the first political assassination that could have destabilised the country," stressed Ben Jaafar in the eulogy dedicated to martyr Mohamed Brahim who was gunned down last July 25. Ben Jaafar, who was speaking at a plenary session held on Tuesday to debate with the government on security issues, also indicated that "the mourning continues in Tunisia. It is a mourning imposed by the enemies of the nation who want to disrupt the national unity," said Ben Jaafar, adding that the NCA is "a choice of the Revolution, a pillar of legitimacy and a lifeline." "I will be faithful to my mission and I will make every effort to reach safe harbour," stressed the President of NCA, highlighting the "need to prioritise wisdom whatever the difference in perceptions and views." He also considered that the NCA rests on firm foundations that cannot be challenged by those who reject the results of the October 23 elections. During his remarks at the opening of the plenary session, Ben Jaafar offered his condolences to the family of Mohamed Brahmi, stressing the qualities of the deceased and his activism. He also expressed his full support to wounded soldiers defending the national flag. The now empty seat of co-ordinator general of the Popular Movement Mohamed Brahmi was covered by the national flag and flowers.