Tunisia's official gazette, the Raed Rasmai, published on September 30, 2026, decree number 4, which abolishes the 2018 basic law number 29 related to the local community code. This decree, consisting of 140 articles, was issued under the supervision of the President of the Republic and outlines the new regulations for municipal councils. The decree revokes the 2018 law, which included 400 articles, and all texts that contradict it.
Decree number 4, which was discussed by the Council of Ministers on September 29, 2026, includes nine titles that cover various aspects of municipal councils. The first title deals with general provisions, while the second title focuses on the municipal council, including its composition, roles, and decision-making processes. The decree also outlines the council's office, committee, and the roles of its president.
According to the decree, its provisions will take effect immediately after the announcement of the final results of the first municipal council elections, which will be held after the decree's publication. Until then, the provisions of decree number 9, dated March 8, 2023, regarding the dissolution of municipal councils, will remain in force. This decree aims to reorganize the municipal councils and their functions.
The new decree is part of a series of reforms aimed at reorganizing local governance in Tunisia. On September 30, 2026, the same day the decree was published, Tunisia received security equipment worth nearly $1 million from the US Embassy in Tunis. This donation is intended to support Tunisia's security sector.
The decree's publication coincides with other news in Tunisia, including the celebration of the International Day of Older Persons. On this occasion, the Ministry of Family and Social Affairs emphasized its commitment to supporting families and providing optimal care for elderly citizens in their natural environment.
In a separate incident, the Tunisian Embassy in Canada is following up on the investigation into the death of a Tunisian citizen, Leila Ben Salem. The embassy is working to ensure the transfer of her body to Tunisia. Meanwhile, starting on September 30, 2026, registrations for the "Loan on Honor" platform will begin, with the Banking and Financial Council explaining the mechanisms for benefiting from this program.
The Tunisian government has been actively working on various initiatives to improve the country's governance and services. The decree abolishing the local community code is part of these efforts, which aim to enhance the role of municipal councils and improve local governance.
Key points
- The new decree number 4 abolishes the 2018 local community code and outlines new regulations for municipal councils in Tunisia.
- The decree's provisions will take effect after the first municipal council elections, which will be held after its publication.
- The Tunisian government has been working on various initiatives to improve governance and services, including the reorganization of local governance.
