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Tarek Kahlaoui criticizes insufficient debate on photovoltaic power plant projects in Parliament
via Business News2 min read
University lecturer and analyst Tarek Kahlaoui criticized the lack of debate surrounding draft laws on photovoltaic power plants, which are scheduled for parliamentary review. In a publication on Monday, April 27, 2026, Kahlaoui stated that he has been following this issue "since its inception" and regrets that only "a small handful" of stakeholders have paid attention to these projects, despite their significance. He highlighted the work of four key players: the Association for Energy Democracy, in conjunction with members of the General Electricity Federation; the Tunisian Organization for Clean Energies STEP, which has developed a white paper; former members of the parliamentary energy commission; and the Tunisian Economic Observatory, which produced what he considers "the most important analytical study" on the projects. Kahlaoui expressed regret that these organizations were not included in parliamentary discussions, noting their contributions were "rejected or ignored" at a recent meeting where only official representatives and project-favorable deputies were heard. He also criticized the authorities' silence regarding reservations from the General Electricity Federation, arguing that "ignoring criticism does not reflect the strength of arguments, but more likely their weakness." Kahlaoui emphasized that these projects, which are crucial for the country's energy future, require a calm public debate based on scientific data and field analyses. He warned against any attem
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Mongi Rahoui, Secretary General of the Unified Democratic Nationalists Party Al-Watad, has called for public demonstrations against five solar power project bills. In a Facebook message on April 27, 2026, Rahoui urged citizens concerned with national sovereignty and the right to natural resources to mobilize on April 28, 2026. He described the projects as an attempt to undermine national sovereignty. These bills, deposited by the Presidency of the Republic, are scheduled for examination by the Assembly of People's Representatives on April 28, 2026. They are part of a strategy to accelerate energy transition and reduce reliance on gas imports, proposing photovoltaic power plants across the country through partnerships with private investors, with the state playing a central role in electricity purchase and regulation. While supporters view these projects as a pragmatic solution to energy and budgetary constraints, opponents, including MP Bilel El Mechri, criticize them as "energy colonialism" and "betrayal," framing the debate ideologically rather than economically or technically. The projects represent a public policy choice to leverage private financing for energy infrastructure given the state's limited investment capacity, a model widely used internationally to balance investment attractiveness with national interests.
Must ReadThe US Department of State announced on Monday, April 27, 2026, the approval of a potential military equipment sale to Tunisia, valued at an estimated $95 million. This sale is part of the third phase of the Border Security Project and aims to enhance Tunisia's defense and surveillance capabilities, particularly along its borders with Libya and Algeria, amidst ongoing regional security challenges. The project will enable Tunisia to improve its ability to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity while addressing national security needs. The program includes the acquisition of non-lethal security equipment for border surveillance and control. Key contractors identified are US companies L3Harris and Texas-based Toyota, specializing in defense technology and mobility. This initiative continues a strategic partnership between Washington and Tunis, focused on counter-terrorism, border surveillance, and regional stability. The United States has supported Tunisia's efforts in this area for several years through modernization programs for surveillance systems and training for security forces. This third phase follows previous phases that strengthened border control measures and operational capabilities of relevant agencies. Tunisia, strategically located between Europe, the Sahel, and Libya, faces complex security challenges including cross-border trafficking, irregular migration, and terrorist threats. Border security projects are seen as crucial for national security, intern
Must ReadThe Tunisian National Bar Association has expressed deep concern following the decision to suspend the activities of the Tunisian Human Rights League LTDH for one month. In a statement released on Monday, April 27, 2026, the association described these measures as an infringement on fundamental freedoms. The Bar Association affirmed its support for the LTDH, its activists, and leaders, acknowledging its historical role in defending human rights and promoting citizenship, equality, and social justice. It highlighted the League's pioneering experience in the Arab and African regions, which was recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2015 as part of the National Dialogue Quartet. The Bar Association firmly rejected decisions to suspend associative activities, arguing that they undermine freedom of organization, which is guaranteed by the Constitution and international conventions ratified by Tunisia. It warned against the consequences of such measures on the independence of civil society, which it considers an essential pillar of democratic life, emphasizing the central role of associations in public oversight, rights advocacy, and supporting vulnerable groups, particularly in marginalized regions. The Bar Association insisted that public freedoms, freedom of expression, freedom of association, and respect for pluralism are fundamental achievements that should not be challenged under any pretext. Finally, it called on authorities to foster an environment based on consultation a
The Arab Institute for Human Rights announced on Monday, April 27, 2026, that it has documented publications targeting Tunisian artist Lotfi Bouchnak and is preparing legal action. The organization stated it is initiating necessary legal procedures following what it describes as a defamatory social media campaign involving massive republications of old content related to the institution and its partners. The Institute believes it is the target of a campaign based on "false allegations" and "organized untruths" aimed at undermining its mission to promote human rights culture. The controversy centers on a 2021 music video titled "Thank You Tunisia," which was widely shared recently. The Institute clarified that this production was created for World Refugee Day and has no connection to current debates on sub-Saharan immigration or contemporary migration issues. The organization emphasizes that the recent circulation of this video is a strategy to create confusion by presenting old content as current. The Arab Institute for Human Rights highlighted its long-standing, voluntary cooperation with Lotfi Bouchnak on humanitarian causes. The Institute honored the artist as a national figure known for his patriotic stances and commitment to Arab causes. The organization believes this campaign will not undermine its activities, which include human rights education, civic education, adult literacy, and support for vulnerable groups. Lotfi Bouchnak faced online controversy after the massiv