Tunisia in political limbo as no new PM in sight

Tunis, Feb 20 (AFP) Tunisia was in political limbo today as President Moncef Marzouki suffered setbacks in his bid to replace Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali, who quit after failing in his plan to form a non-partisan cabinet. Talks between Marzouki and Rached Ghannouchi, head of Islamist Ennahda party, ended inconclusively, dashing hopes of a soon end to Tunisia's deepest political crisis since the revolt that ousted Zine El Abidine Ben Ali two years ago. "For the moment we have no name," said Ghannouchi, whose party holds the majority in the National Constituent Assembly, after his meeting with Marzouki. He added that he was in "talks with Jebali" to continue in his post. Jebali announced his resignation late last night, saying he had failed in his efforts for a solution to the long-running crisis. He stressed when he resigned he would not sign on again as prime minister under "any initiative that does not fix a date for new elections. What about the constitution? What about elections?" As well as the row over the new government, there is deadlock over the drafting of a constitution, with parliament divided over the nature of Tunisia's future political system 15 months after it was elected. Ghannouchi after today's talks with Marzouki said "numerous parties have expressed their desire to be part of" a new government. "I hope that forming of the government will not go beyond this week," he added. Adnene Mancer, spokesman for the presidency, said it was hoped that a candidate for the premiership would be known by tomorrow. "The issue is in the hands of the party that has the majority in the National Constituent Assembly. Ennahda has not yet decided on its candidate," he said. Tunisia was plunged into the crisis when leftist politician Chokri Belaid was shot dead outside his home in Tunis on February 6. Though no one claimed responsibility, Belaid's family accused Ennahda of being behind the killing, which the party vehemently denied. The assassination did little to ease the misgivings of liberals and secularists who believe Ennahda is failing to rein in religious extremists threatening the stability of Tunisia. (AFP) SJS SAI 02202236 NNNN