Walesa meets Arab Human Rights League in Tunisia

Tunisia during January protests; photo - EPA

Walesa is heading a delegation of pioneers of Polish democratic movements from the times of political and economic transformations following the collapse of the communist system.

On Friday, he is meeting with the Tunisian education minister, representatives of the Arab Human Rights League, opposition organizations and trade unions.

The interim government that has assumed responsibility after the fall of President Ben Ali has invited the group to share Polish experiences of the transformation period with Tunisian reformers.

Taieb Zahar, editor in chief of the influential Realites independent weekly, told Polish Radio the visit of Lech Walesa and his delegation of “forefathers of Polish democracy” is a splendid opportunity to exchange experiences.

“Poland scored success in decentralization and strong regional development. This would be of good use also for us,” he said.

Lech Walesa said he has been following propositions of the High Commission For Political Reforms, which comprises representatives of major parties, with keen interest. However, what he found missing from the discussion on Tunisia’s future political development has been the participation of the working people.

“This worries me as a labor unionist. These working people are the broad base for transformations. If not active in the process, they might feel left out. Unionists should be included in the discussions, so they can see what is going on. This would be very beneficial.”

Saturday morning, Lech Walesa is leaving for Rome where he will be attending beatification ceremonies of John Paul II. (ss)