Tunisian MP Hala Gaballah has submitted a bill to create an independent municipality in Sousse El Riadh, a suburb of Sousse. The bill, which was submitted on September 29, 2026, aims to address the poor services and infrastructure in the area. Gaballah cited the need to improve the quality of life for residents, who have been demanding better services for years.
The current municipal council in Sousse El Riadh faces significant challenges in providing basic services to residents. These include the accumulation of waste, inadequate street lighting, and poor road maintenance. Several neighborhoods, including Hay Ziyatine, part of Yunes Aouane, and Hammam Maaref, are particularly affected. Residents also face difficulties in obtaining permits for electricity and water connections.
The area lacks new public projects, and several major facilities are either underdeveloped or non-existent. These include institutions for childcare, women's centers, cultural centers, and sports facilities. Gaballah highlighted the need for these facilities to improve the quality of life for residents. She also expressed disappointment over the delay in implementing a sports complex project in the area.
In a letter dated September 3, 2026, the Ministry of Interior informed Gaballah that the municipality of Sousse would not proceed with the acquisition of land for the sports complex project in Hay El Riadh. The project was initially planned and allocated funds, but it has been postponed. Gaballah criticized the decision, citing previous commitments and meetings between the municipality and local council.
Gaballah's bill is based on the provisions of the Local Authorities Act and aims to address the needs of residents in Sousse El Riadh. The bill seeks to create a new, independent municipality with its own administrative and financial powers. This, Gaballah argues, will enable the area to develop its own strategies and plans for growth and development.
The people of Sousse El Riadh have been demanding better services and infrastructure for years. They face significant challenges in their daily lives, including poor sanitation, inadequate transportation, and limited access to public services. Gaballah's bill is seen as a step towards addressing these challenges and improving the quality of life for residents.
The bill is expected to be debated in parliament, where it will face scrutiny and discussion. If passed, it could lead to significant changes in the administration and development of Sousse El Riadh. The creation of a new municipality could also set a precedent for other areas in Tunisia facing similar challenges.
Key points
- Tunisian MP Hala Gaballah submits bill to create independent municipality in Sousse El Riadh.
- The bill aims to address poor services and infrastructure in the area.
- The creation of a new municipality could improve the quality of life for residents in Sousse El Riadh.
