CARTHAGE, August 8, 2009 (TAP) – Activists, members of the local and professional committees and representatives of sections abroad of the Tunisian Mothers Organisation (OTM), taking part in the national meeting of mothers, paid tribute to the sustained will of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali to promote political life and consolidate the foundations of the pluralistic and democratic construction, as part of consecration of the rule of law and institution out of his conviction that Tunisia belongs to all Tunisians who work for the glory of Tunisia.

In a message to the Head of State, participants in the event commend his determination to ensure that the 2009 elections be an important political event in the history of the country and take place as part of transparency and respect for the law through the creation of the National Observatory of Elections to guarantee the good progress of voting operations.

Signees of the message also emphasise the President of the Republic's keenness on ensuring that youth be essential players in the building of the future of Tunisia as reflected in the amendment of the Electoral Code by lowering the voting age to 18 years to enable Tunisian youth to participate, with all rights and duties, in all public affairs.

OTM activists express, in this message, the pride they take in the sustained action of the Head of State to enhance the presence of women in decision-making positions by increasing the rate of this presence to at least 30% on the list of the Constitutional Democratic Rally for the legislative elections.

They also reiterate their allegiance to the country and their loyalty to President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and attachment to his person as the leader of Tunisia's successful progress on the path of development, security and stability.