A widely circulated Facebook post claiming the Egyptian Ministry of Health officially banned C-sections, except in extreme necessity, has been debunked as false. Investigations found no official communication from the ministry announcing such a prohibition. Instead, Egyptian health authorities have been implementing a long-standing policy to reduce medically unjustified C-sections, not to ban them. Official recommendations encourage natural childbirth when medically feasible, while maintaining C-sections for maternal or infant protection. The Egyptian Health Council's guidelines emphasize clinical evaluation by health professionals for such decisions. Egypt has a high C-section rate, prompting a national strategy to reduce unnecessary interventions through medical training and improved obstetric practices. This strategy does not include a general ban on C-sections. This rumor has been circulating on Egyptian social media since October, appearing in various forms suggesting an official decision, but no official document has confirmed it. The Egyptian authorities' policy aims to combat C-sections performed without medical indication, not to eliminate them, as C-sections remain essential in many obstetric situations.
Tunisia's Assembly of People's Representatives ARP approved two loan agreements for the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company STEG on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. These loans are intended to finance an energy sector reform program. The first bill, approving a guarantee agreement between Tunisia and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development IBRD for a STEG loan, passed with 72 votes in favor, 19 against, and six abstentions. The second bill, concerning another guarantee agreement with the IBRD as the implementing entity for the Clean Technology Fund, also for STEG, was adopted with 19 votes against and six abstentions. These loans aim to improve efficiency, performance, and governance in Tunisia's energy sector, strengthen electrical infrastructure, and support renewable energy development. The adoption followed several days of parliamentary tension, including a session on Friday, July 10, being suspended and postponed. Deputy Bilel El Mechri had accused the Assembly President, Brahim Bouderbala, of delaying the vote due to strong opposition, calling the agreements "colonization loans" and alleging they would benefit foreign companies and lead to STEG's privatization.
The Tunis Court of Appeal's criminal chamber specializing in terrorism cases increased the sentences of Béchir Akremi, Habib Ellouze, and Hassen Brik on Monday, July 13, 2026, in two cases related to the assassination of Chokri Belaïd. Béchir Akremi's total sentence was raised from 23 to 29 years in prison for procedural failures in handling the Belaïd case, including intentionally omitting to arrest a suspect, concealing the truth, and falsification. Habib Ellouze and Hassen Brik each saw their sentences increase from 13 to 17 years in prison. They were convicted for providing skills and expertise to individuals involved in terrorist offenses and disclosing information to aid those linked to terrorist crimes. The court also confirmed the administrative control measure for all three convicts, to be applied after their prison sentences. These decisions follow the initial judgments on March 4, 2026, by the Tunis Court of First Instance. Both the convicted individuals and Chokri Belaïd's defense committee had appealed the first-instance rulings. These cases are part of investigations following the assassination of political opponent Chokri Belaïd on February 6, 2013, focusing on the judicial handling of the matter rather than the perpetrators of the assassination itself. The Ennahdha movement had previously criticized the initial trial, citing a lack of independence and procedural irregularities, and disputed the charges against Habib Ellouze and Béchir Akremi's involvement.
Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed sent a message of condolences to Qatar on Monday, July 13, 2026, following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 74. In a message conveyed by the Qatar News Agency QNA, the head of state expressed his deep sympathy to the ruling family and the Qatari people. He offered prayers for the deceased and extended wishes of courage and comfort to his loved ones and the entire Qatari nation during this period of mourning. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died in Doha, and a funeral prayer was held at the Imam Mohammed bin Abdel Waheb Mosque before his burial. Qatari authorities have declared four days of national mourning. Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was a significant figure in Qatar's contemporary history, playing a central role in the emirate's transformation and development during his reign.
A highly violent video circulating on social media features an individual issuing insults, calls for execution, and threats of murder and hanging against several political figures and lawyers, including Hamma Hammami, the Secretary-General of the Workers' Party. Hammami has decided to file a complaint with the justice system. The three-minute video, widely shared, shows a man identified as a supporter of the President of the Republic, making repeated calls for Hammami's "execution" and stating his willingness to kill him. The threats extend to other named individuals, including Samir Dilou, Mohamed Abbou, Ezzeddine Hazgui, and Rached Ghannouchi. The video's author expresses a desire to gather them, "tie them together," and place chains around their necks, while also urging authorities to prevent some of these individuals from leaving the country. The video also contains continuous insults, labeling the targeted individuals as "traitors," "mercenaries," and "dogs," and claims they are acting against the President of the Republic. The author attributes statements to Hamma Hammami calling for a "new revolution" starting July 25, which are presented in the video as justification for the calls to violence. The article highlights the public nature of these explicit death threats and the question it raises about the normalization of political violence on social media, especially when such content is openly accessible and features specific acts of violence.
Tunisian Minister of Interior Khaled Nouri spoke by phone with his French counterpart Laurent Nuñez on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the initiative of the latter. Their discussions focused on shared security challenges, particularly the fight against cross-border crime and drug trafficking. According to a statement from the Tunisian Ministry of Interior, the two officials addressed various issues under the purview of their respective ministries. The exchanges specifically covered ways to strengthen coordination against criminal networks operating across borders, especially given the increasing regional security challenges. The telephone conversation also provided an opportunity to explore consolidating Tunisian-French security cooperation. Both ministers emphasized the importance of continuing joint efforts to address common threats, including illicit trafficking and organized forms of crime. Security cooperation remains a major aspect of the relationship between Tunis and Paris, alongside economic, migratory, and diplomatic matters.
Tunisia ranks 110th out of 135 countries and jurisdictions in the 2026 Global Index on Responsible AI GIRAI, scoring 16.37 out of 100. This places Tunisia significantly below the global average of approximately 35 points and far behind European nations that lead the ranking. The index assesses public authorities' capacity to regulate AI, protect fundamental rights, ensure system transparency, and establish oversight and recourse mechanisms, rather than technological development or company performance. The data for the report covers November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2025. Tunisia's scores across the five dimensions of AI governance are: 19.22 for inclusion and diversity, 9.61 for ethics and sustainability, 13.46 for labor and skills, 23.52 for trust and security, and 16.04 for AI use in public services. Trust and security is the highest-rated dimension, while ethics and sustainability is the lowest. The country received a zero score for civil society engagement in AI governance. General conditions for responsible AI development, such as institutional, legal, and technical capacities, scored 49.22 out of 100. These results indicate that while Tunisia has some favorable conditions, they have not yet translated into effective public policies or control mechanisms. Globally, Norway leads the index with 75.26 points, followed by Italy 72.71 and Ireland 71.39. France is fourth 70.32, the Netherlands fifth 69.51, and Germany sixth 68.98. The UK is seventh 67.27, followed by Slovenia
On Monday, July 13, 2026, Donald Trump announced that the United States would "take control" of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route, and would require payment for its protection. Speaking to Fox News, Trump stated, "We will become the guardians of the strait," and added that the US expects significant reimbursement for the risks faced by its troops, claiming the US has provided this service "for free" until now. This declaration comes amid high tensions between Washington and Tehran, despite a recent ceasefire. Trump's statement that the US is "taking control" contradicts Iran's assertion that the strait remains closed "until further notice." Days prior, Trump had threatened to "decimate and completely destroy" Iran following intelligence from Israel about an alleged Iranian plot against him. Tehran, however, maintains it has respected the ceasefire and accuses Washington of violating its commitments by reinstating economic sanctions. The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean, facilitating approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption and a significant portion of liquefied natural gas exports. Disruptions in this area typically lead to increased energy prices and international market concerns. Iran has frequently threatened to close the strait in response to Western military and economic pressure, while Washington justifies its naval presence by the need to ensure freedom of navigati
American investor Fergie Chambers, known for his financial support of Club Africain in Tunisia, was arrested on July 10 in Ibiza, Spain. He is facing an extradition process to the United States, where he is accused of international money laundering and allegedly providing material support to foreign terrorist organizations. According to reports from The Grayzone and Middle East Eye, the case is linked to Chambers' public support for the Palestinian cause and his funding of humanitarian projects related to Gaza. Chambers, an heir to the Cox family fortune, sold his shares in the family business in 2023 and left the US, stating his intention to dedicate part of his wealth to international solidarity projects, particularly for the people of Gaza, and to fund pro-Palestine media and activist organizations. The Grayzone indicates that the indictment accuses Chambers of money laundering "with the intent to provide material support and resources to foreign terrorist organizations," but notes that the excerpts reviewed do not show evidence of funds being transferred to an organization designated as terrorist. Tunisia is mentioned in the judicial documents, with the indictment stating that Chambers made numerous transfers from US banks to Tunisian banks after moving there in late 2023. The published excerpts do not specify the amounts or beneficiaries of these transfers. Middle East Eye reports approximately $7.5 million was transferred out of the US after his departure, without detai
Tunisia's trade deficit widened to 12.57 billion dinars in the first half of 2026, a 26.9% increase from the previous year, despite a 9% rise in exports to 34.65 billion dinars. Imports grew faster at 13.3%, reaching 47.21 billion dinars, reducing the import coverage rate to 73.4%. The energy deficit is the primary driver of this imbalance, reaching 6.78 billion dinars, up from 5.21 billion dinars a year prior, and now accounts for 53.9% of the total trade deficit. This means more than half of the trade deficit is due to energy exchanges. Energy product imports surged by 33.5%, the highest increase among major imported categories. This situation is exacerbated by a 9% decline in primary energy resources by the end of April 2026, with crude oil production down 7% and natural gas down 13%, while primary energy demand increased by 4%. This growing gap between national supply and demand necessitates increased oil and gas imports, further inflating the energy bill and trade deficit. Tunisia's energy dependence rate reached 65% by the end of April 2026, or 71% excluding the Algerian gas transit fee, indicating that nearly two-thirds to over seven-tenths of the country's energy needs are met by hydrocarbon imports. Rising Brent crude prices in the first four months of 2026 also contributed to higher energy import costs, despite a dinar appreciation against the dollar. This trend contrasts with Tunisia's 2035 energy strategy, which aims to enhance supply security, reduce fossil fuel
Tunisia's trade deficit worsened by 27% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, reaching -12.57 billion dinars by the end of June 2026, according to figures released by the National Institute of Statistics. This is an increase from -9.90 billion dinars a year prior and -8.02 billion dinars in the first half of 2024. The coverage rate also declined, falling to 73.4% in the first half of 2026 from 76.2% in 2025 and 79.9% in 2024. Exports increased by 9% to 34.65 billion dinars, while imports rose by 13.3% to 47.21 billion dinars. Export growth was driven by mechanical and electrical industries +9.1% and agri-food industries +25.2%, particularly olive oil sales. Energy sector exports also grew by 49.1% due to increased sales of refined products. However, exports decreased in the mining, phosphates, and derivatives sector -19% and the textile, clothing, and leather sector -3.5%. Imports increased across all categories, notably energy products +33.5% and food products +27.1%. Exports to the European Union accounted for 70.4% of total exports, increasing to France and Italy but decreasing to Germany and Greece. Exports to Arab countries significantly increased to Egypt and Saudi Arabia, while decreasing to Morocco, Algeria, and Libya. Imports from the European Union, representing 44.9% of total imports, increased from France and Italy but decreased from Bulgaria and Portugal. Outside the EU, imports rose from Turkey, India, and China, but fell from Russia and
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. The announcement was made by the Emir's Diwan, marking the death of a significant figure in the contemporary history of the Gulf state. The Diwan, in a statement on social media, paid tribute to the man known in Qatar as "the Father Emir," invoking divine mercy and commending his service to the country. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani came to power in 1995. Over nearly two decades, he oversaw a profound transformation of Qatar, driven by the exploitation of its substantial gas resources and an international investment strategy. Under his rule, Doha evolved from a small Gulf state into an influential regional and international player. Key developments included the launch of Al Jazeera in 1996, the expansion of Qatari diplomacy, and securing the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, all of which boosted the emirate's global visibility. In June 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a rare abdication among hereditary monarchies in the Gulf, intended to ensure a smooth political transition.
Salmonella has been confirmed as the cause of a mass food poisoning incident that affected nearly 200 people after a wedding in the Talha region of El Mida, Ouedhref delegation, Gabes governorate. Ahmed Neji, regional coordinator for the National Food Safety Authority in Gabes, announced the confirmation on Saturday, July 11, 2026, on Mosaïque FM, concluding investigations into the incident. Following the wedding meal, dozens of guests experienced abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and high fevers, leading to their admission to the local hospital in Mdhouref. Approximately 200 individuals received treatment before being discharged. Health inspectors faced a challenge as no food samples were available for analysis. They relied on victim testimonies to reconstruct the menu, with initial suspicions focusing on tajine and mechouia salad, dishes prone to spoilage in high temperatures if improperly stored. The appearance of symptoms approximately 24 hours after the meal had already led specialists to suspect salmonella. Subsequent analyses and investigations have now confirmed this hypothesis. Salmonella is a common cause of food poisoning, often linked to undercooked or improperly stored eggs, poultry, and their derivatives. High summer temperatures facilitate its proliferation, increasing risks at large gatherings. Ahmed Neji urged increased vigilance, especially at weddings and family events, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the cold chain, hygiene rules, and proper fo
Tunisia and Russia have expressed their commitment to further developing their partnership, marking 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations. On July 11, 2026, Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohamed Ali Nafti and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, exchanged messages acknowledging the strong ties between their nations. They noted that relations began on July 11, 1956, when Tunisia established diplomatic ties with the Soviet Union. Both ministers emphasized that this cooperation, built on historical and economic links, has evolved over decades through mutual respect, dialogue, and shared interests. They also praised the continuous growth of bilateral relations across strategic sectors such as agriculture, economy, scientific research, culture, and technology. Nafti and Lavrov reiterated their intention to expand cooperation by exploring new high-value sectors and increasing exchanges. This anniversary occurs amid significant geopolitical shifts, including Russia's growing diplomatic and economic presence in Africa and Tunisia's desire to diversify international partnerships. The ministers also expressed their commitment to ongoing consultation and coordination within regional and international organizations.
The Ministry of Health has initiated discussions with representatives from the medical equipment sector to prevent a potential interruption in supplies to public hospitals, anticipated by August 31, 2026. This development follows an ultimatum issued by medical device suppliers due to years of unpaid invoices. Lotfi Ben Yedder, president of the Utica Medical Equipment Union Chamber, announced the talks on July 11, 2026, describing a recent meeting with the Minister of Health as "positive." The sector's representatives had previously warned that without payment of debts owed to over 600 companies before August 31, they would declare a "force majeure," risking suspension of deliveries and maintenance services. The Minister of Health, in coordination with the Ministry of Social Affairs, has committed to mobilizing funds in July and August to alleviate the companies' cash flow issues, though the exact amount is not yet specified. Both parties have agreed to continue meetings for the next three months and establish a joint commission to address outstanding issues, including bank guarantees and late payment penalties. The crisis stems from unpaid invoices by public health facilities accumulating since 2020, leading to severe liquidity problems for companies despite being profitable on paper. These companies are crucial for both supplying and maintaining medical equipment, and a disruption could impact daily hospital operations. Ben Yedder expressed confidence that the discussions an
Donald Trump threatened to "decimate and completely destroy" Iran if it attempted to assassinate him, following intelligence from Israel about an alleged Iranian plot. Trump stated on Truth Social that "A thousand missiles are ready to fire and pointed towards the Islamic Republic of Iran, and thousands more will follow immediately" if the threat is carried out. He added that the US military is "ready, willing, and able" to destroy all regions of Iran for up to a year. This comes after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Tehran had respected the ceasefire agreement with Washington, accusing the US of violating its commitments by reinstating economic sanctions. The exchanges highlight a deterioration in relations between the two countries, weeks after a ceasefire was announced. The alleged assassination plot revelations also surface amid ongoing disagreements between Washington and Tel Aviv, with Israel advocating for continued pressure on Iran despite Trump's acceptance of a truce.
The People's Representatives Assembly ARP approved the 2026-2030 development plan bill on Friday, July 10, 2026, with 64 votes in favor, 15 abstentions, and 24 votes against. This adoption concludes the parliamentary process for a document the executive branch presented as a roadmap for the country's economic and social directions over the next five years. The plan aims to boost growth, support investment, strengthen regional development, and implement structural transformations across various sectors. The government defended the project, stating it offers a new development vision focused on improving competitiveness, leveraging national resources, and mobilizing new funding sources. Critics, however, raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the financial means required for its implementation, especially given the state's limited budgetary margins. Economic experts and elected officials expressed doubts about the plan's ability to effectively address persistent economic challenges, including unemployment, regional disparities, weak private investment, and difficulties in several productive sectors. Opponents viewed the project more as a statement of intent than an operational program, citing the absence of sufficiently detailed mechanisms to guarantee the achievement of stated objectives. While this vote marks a crucial step, questions remain about the plan's capacity to translate its ambitions into tangible results.
A repatriation operation for Tunisian women and children held in Syria is underway, according to Mostafa Abdelkebir, president of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights OTDH. The group is to be transferred to the Turkish border before being taken over by Tunisian authorities. Abdelkebir stated on July 10, 2026, that this would be the first repatriation of Tunisian children from Syria, whose fathers were involved with the Daesh terrorist organization. He estimates that over 200 Tunisian children and more than 60 Tunisian women are in Syrian prisons and camps, though these figures are unconfirmed by Tunisian authorities. The OTDH has been working on this issue for several years, documenting and monitoring cases. This announcement follows Abdelkebir's earlier statements in January 2026 about an international process to transfer detainees from former Daesh strongholds, with an estimated 6,500 Tunisians involved. He noted the complexity of the issue, including verifying identities, nationalities, and parentage, as well as determining judicial, security, and social support. Tunisian authorities have not yet officially commented on or confirmed this operation.
New clashes erupted on Thursday, July 9, 2026, between the United States and Iran, with Tehran retaliating against Washington's allies in the region. Iran accused its enemies of attempting to disrupt the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This resurgence of hostilities, the most significant since a fragile memorandum of understanding was signed on June 17 to solidify an April ceasefire, raises fears of a return to a large-scale conflict. Donald Trump declared the truce "over" and criticized Iranian leaders as "sick" individuals he no longer wished to deal with, though he left the door open for his negotiating team to continue talks. For the second consecutive night, the United States launched massive strikes against Iran, targeting approximately 90 military sites, including anti-aircraft defense systems, coastal surveillance facilities, and missile and drone storage sites on the southern coast. Iran accused Washington of also targeting civilian infrastructure to "cast a shadow" and prevent worshippers from attending Ali Khamenei's funeral. Bridges and the railway link between Tehran and Mashhad, where the former supreme leader was to be buried that evening, were reportedly hit. Strikes were also reported in the "perimeter" of Iran's only active nuclear power plant in Bushehr, according to an Iranian official cited by the official Irna agency. Badriyeh, a 44-year-old housewife from Bandar Abbas, reported that American raids resulted in 17 deaths and 93 injuries, with wind
Viral videos have raised concerns about the presence of "forever chemicals," or PFAS, in kitchen items like air fryers and Teflon pans. While these videos highlight a real scientific issue, they often lack nuance. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals developed since the 1950s, valued for their non-stick, waterproof, and heat-resistant properties. They are found in non-stick coatings, food packaging, waterproof textiles, and cosmetics. These chemicals are called "forever chemicals" because their carbon-fluorine bonds are extremely stable, leading to very slow degradation and persistence in the environment for decades. They can contaminate soil, rivers, groundwater, and living organisms, accumulating in the human body. A report by the international network IPEN, titled "Forever Chemicals in Single-use Food Packaging and Tableware from 17 Countries," found PFAS in 54% of 119 food packaging and disposable tableware samples from 17 countries, including Tunisia. These were detected in fast-food packaging, microwave popcorn bags, baking paper, cups, takeout containers, and packaging made from recycled paper. High concentrations were found in plant-fiber containers marketed as biodegradable or compostable, and in microwave popcorn packaging. PFAS can migrate from packaging to food, especially when food is hot, fatty, or in prolonged contact with the container. Studies show that regular consumption of microwave popcorn or fast food leads to higher PFAS concentrations in blood. Expo
The US military announced new strikes against Iran on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, aimed at weakening Tehran's ability to target commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. This action followed a statement by US President Donald Trump, who had earlier declared that Washington would "strike hard" overnight. The US military stated on X that these strikes were intended to further diminish Iran's capacity to impede freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, holding Iran responsible for recent aggressions against commercial ships and civilian crews in the vital international shipping lane. President Trump made his remarks after the NATO summit in Ankara, assuring that the new confrontations would end "very quickly" while also indicating that diplomatic negotiations with Tehran remained a possibility.
A report released on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, by the Intersection association for rights and freedoms, details an increase in restrictions and prosecutions against Tunisian civil society over the past two years. Titled "Civil society facing repression: violations targeting associations from May 2024 to the end of May 2026," the document identifies 88 cases of violations affecting associations, activists, and human rights defenders. The report, which covers the period from May 2024 to the end of May 2026, notes 47 cases of restrictions and prosecutions against associations and organizations, and 41 legal proceedings initiated against activists, association leaders, and human rights defenders. Eight individuals have been detained, while 34 others are being prosecuted but remain free. Seven first-instance judgments have been issued against activists. Administratively, 22 decisions to suspend association activities for one month were recorded. Two organizations, Manamti and Al Khatt, face legal proceedings for dissolution. The report highlights the cases of Saadia Mosbah, president of the Manamti association, who was arrested and sentenced to eight years in prison despite a financial audit reportedly finding no irregularities, and Abdallah Saïd, president of the Enfants de la Lune association, who remains detained after a one-year prison sentence in the first instance. Intersection identifies four forms of pressure: using anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering laws against civi
The Association of Tunisian Doctors in Germany has strongly criticized the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's response regarding the equivalency of diplomas for Tunisian doctors trained abroad. In a statement released on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the association described the ministry's response as "succinct and selective" and called for a reform of the equivalency system as part of a national strategy to attract Tunisian medical professionals established in Germany. The association clarified that Tunisian doctors completing their training in Germany receive a German specialty diploma, recognized at the European level and issued by the Medical Council of the respective Land. They argue that the ministry's characterization of this title as a "certificate of competence" is "misleading" and does not reflect its value or international recognition. The association also contested the ministry's interpretation of Article 16 of the 2023 decree on equivalencies, stating that the text allows for doctors to "may" be exempted from certain procedures after five years of practice, which they believe grants too much administrative discretion without uniform criteria. They advocate for immediate and automatic recognition of the German specialty diploma, without the five-year practice requirement or an evaluation exam, proposing instead a short adaptation period of up to six months to familiarize doctors with Tunisian protocols. The association also supports shared practice m
A new bill has been submitted to the Tunisian Parliament to ensure the effective execution of judicial decisions and penalties, and to criminalize acts that obstruct their implementation. Member of Parliament Fatma Mseddi announced on July 7, 2026, via Facebook, that the text, registered as number 44/2026, has been sent to the General Legislation Committee of the Assembly of People's Representatives for review. Speaking on Mosaïque FM on July 8, Mseddi explained that the initiative addresses the ongoing issue of unexecuted judicial decisions in both criminal and administrative justice. She highlighted a legal vacuum that currently prevents adequate punishment for those responsible for non-execution, noting that many decisions remain unenforced. Mseddi stated that the current legal framework is insufficient, with penalties for such offenses limited to two weeks imprisonment and a four-dinar fine. The proposal also includes specific provisions for cases involving public officials or similar individuals, suggesting stricter penalties when obstruction comes from a public servant or official. The bill will now be examined by the General Legislation Committee before potentially being scheduled for a plenary session.