The Role of Islamists in Embracing Democracy in Tunisia

Abstract

The Arab spring time line begins in Tunisia, a smallest Muslim country in North- Africa and spread across the Middle East. The protesters in Tunisia were less concerned about Islam’s role in transition and demanded a new government, and political institutions based on legitimacy and political liberty. In Tunisia 99 percent of population are Muslims and rest one percent is jew. In 2011, it was seen 27 percent of Tunisians voted for Enhanda were in favour of close relationship between religion and politics and 32 percent of those polled put economic growth and employment at the top priority lists. This paper attempts and examine the role played by Islamists to shape the future of the country by advocating political reforms and a system of government based on democratic message of political inclusion, pluralism, political and socio-economic freedoms.