Ben Ali fled in disgrace to Saudi Arabia and died in 2019. A truth commission found tens of thousands of victims of torture, execution or corruption under him and his predecessor. While countries in democratic transition often experience such nostalgia, Moussi has tapped into widespread frustration with the failure of Tunisia’s post-revolution democratically elected governments to tackle searing poverty. Speakers played a song popular during the Ben Ali dictatorship, with gauzy lyrics about perfect beaches and sunny weather. Mohammed Jegham worked under Ben Ali for 13 years, including as interior minister, defense minister and the president’s chief of staff.

Source: Egypt Independent January 13, 2021 10:52 UTC