Analysis: Tunisia's political crisis poses existential test for Islamist party

President Kais Saied's decision to seize control of government, dismiss the premier and suspend parliament has cast doubt over Tunisia's democracy and Ennahda's place in it, kindling fierce debate in the party over how to respond.

But, already under investigation over financing violations in the last election, which it denies, Ennahda has been rendered more vulnerable by the political crisis than at any time since the 2011 revolution. "No one can deny that there are clear differences within Ennahda...The differences are more direct and clear after the recent political earthquake," said a senior party official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Saied said his takeover is permitted under the constitution to avert disorder caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and political dysfunction and said parliament will be frozen only for 30 days.Ghannouchi initially called for people to come out against Saied as protesters did against a veteran autocratic leader in 2011, and led a sit-in outside parliament, before backing down and urging calm and dialogue.

However, the decision was opposed by other figures inside Ennahda, who thought backing down would allow Saied to easily crack down on the movement. Avoiding confrontation will "carry a high price" said one official.

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