Central Bank Governor Nabli Demands Explanation From President

Governor of the Tunisian Central Bank (BCT) Mustapha Kamel Nabli held a press conference today to address his potential dismissal from his post.

Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki announced on June 27 that Nabli would be replaced, though that decision is currently under consideration by Tunisia’s Constituent Assembly.

Representing the first public statement made by the head of the BCT, Nabli’s remarks come just five days before the Constituent Assembly is expected to approve or veto the motion of the president. The conference was intended to clarify Nabli’s position with respect to the president’s announcement.

The governor expressed regret over the decision made by the Office of the Presidency, and called upon all parties to deal with the issue objectively. Nabli stated his belief that Marzouki’s decision reflects personal misgivings against the governor and a lack of respect for the independence of the BCT.

“The decision to remove an official from the head of one of the country’s most strategic institutions is too significant to be made on the basis of subjective considerations. The president did not present any tangible arguments to support his decision, which makes me question its legitimacy, especially given that it contradicts the independent principle of the central bank,” he stated.

Nabli announced that he will respect the upcoming decision to be made by the Constituent Assembly, as he considers it a trustworthy institution that represents the people’s voice.

During this conference, Nabli also warned that this decision could send a message to Tunisia’s international partners that would directly affect their perception of the quality of governance in the country.

Finally, when asked about Marzouki’s recent refusal to sign contracts increasing Tunisia’s investment in the IMF, Nabli declared, “Tunisia has engagements with international institutions, which need to be honored. The contract should not be refused especially given that the Constituent Assembly and the government have approved it.”