“The murder of the opposition politician Mohamed Brahmi is also a blow for Tunisia’s fledgling democracy. This crime must be investigated quickly and thoroughly. Political violence has no place in a democracy.

I hope that all government and opposition leaders will not be disheartened by this cowardly deed but that they will continue to work hard to establish new democratic structures and quickly adopt the new constitution with the support of all parties.

Peace and harmony in Tunisia are precious commodities. Cold‑blooded killers must not be allowed to throw the new Tunisia off its course, the course of democratic transformation, and to cast aside the achievements of the revolution.”