Tunisia awaits election results
Jeremy Hobson: They’re counting votes today in Tunisia — the first of the Arab Spring countries to head to the polls. The turnout over the weekend was 90 percent.
We’re going to talk now with Inel Tarfa who is a 25-year-old business school student in Tunisia. He’s with us from the capital, Tunis. Good morning.
Inel Tarfa: Good morning.
Hobson: Well, first of all, this revolution that started in Tunisia started because of economic reasons, to some degree anyway. Do you think that as a result of these elections, that those concerns — those economic concerns — will be addressed?
Tarfa: Well, to be perfectly honest, with the results we are seeing so far with Ennahda leading, I don’t think it’s really their main concern — although all parties we will improve the economics, etc. But I don’t really trust them.
Hobson: You think the party — this moderate Islamic party that is leading — is not going to address those concerns?
Tarfa: Well, not directly, I’d say. They sure will try to appease people, but that won’t be their main concern until long-term.
Hobson: You are a business school student. Do you plan to stay in Tunisia when you’re finished with school, or leave?
Tarfa: So far, I don’t really know. I have to finish my degree first, and then I’ll see if I can have an opportunity outside of Tunisia or not. We’ll see, I don’t know yet.
Hobson: Inel Tarfa, 25-year-old business student, joining us from Tunis, Tunisia. Thank you so much.
Tarfa: Thank you.
Stories You Might Like
As a nonprofit news organization, our future depends on listeners like you who believe in the power of public service journalism.
Your investment in Marketplace helps us remain paywall-free and ensures everyone has access to trustworthy, unbiased news and information, regardless of their ability to pay.
Donate today — in any amount — to become a Marketplace Investor. Now more than ever, your commitment makes a difference.
