April 23, 2025 – Tunis, Tunisia. Fouad Mebazaa, the former President of Tunisia who served as the country’s leader during its critical transitional period following the 2011 revolution, has passed away at the age of 91.
Mebazaa, a seasoned political figure, was appointed as interim president on January 15, 2011, following the ousting of long-time leader Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. His presidency marked a defining moment in Tunisia’s history, as the nation embarked on a path of democratic reform and political restructuring after years of autocratic rule.
Mebazaa’s tenure was short, lasting just over a year, from 2011 to 2012, but it was pivotal in guiding Tunisia through the early stages of its post-revolutionary transition. He oversaw the establishment of a transitional government and the drafting of a new constitution, laying the groundwork for the country’s move towards democratic elections and political pluralism.
Although his presidency was largely ceremonial, Mebazaa’s role during the turbulent period of the Jasmine Revolution solidified his place in Tunisia’s modern political history. As a member of the moderate political establishment, he was regarded as a unifying figure, tasked with ensuring the country’s stability as it faced significant social and political upheaval.
Born in 1933 in the town of Sidi Bouzid, Mebazaa was a veteran politician who had held various roles within Tunisia’s political system before becoming interim president. He was notably a member of the Democratic Constitutional Rally, the party that dominated Tunisia for much of the 20th century.
Despite the challenges of his interim presidency, Mebazaa’s contributions to the peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy were widely recognized. His leadership helped pave the way for the 2011 elections, which resulted in the formation of Tunisia’s first freely elected government. Mebazaa later stepped down after the election of Moncef Marzouki as president in December 2012, marking the end of his brief yet impactful presidency.
Tunisians across the political spectrum have mourned his passing, with many remembering Mebazaa’s commitment to the country’s democratic evolution. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, diplomacy, and leadership during one of Tunisia’s most defining moments.
Fouad Mebazaa is survived by his family and will be remembered as a key figure in the journey towards a free and democratic Tunisia.
