The leader of the Free Constitutional Party in Tunisia, Abir Moussi, was assaulted in the heart of parliament on Wednesday while delivering a speech during a general session, raising widespread concern about the rise of political violence in the country. A video showed independent MP Sahbi Smara approaching Abir Moussi in full view of everyone before attacking her, while Moussi screamed due to the assault.
Parliamentarians quickly intervened to rescue the Free Constitutional Party leader from the grasp of MP Smara, who had begun the unexpected attack and also attempted to kick her. According to Tunisian media, this incident occurred in the presence of the session's president, Samira Chaouachi, and Minister of Women, Family, Childhood, and Seniors, Iman Zahwani.
The assault on Moussi led to chaos within the parliament building, with condemnations pouring in from outside the council as the political strife in the country escalated into acts of violence. The parliamentary session was dedicated to a bill concerning domestic work, as well as a bill related to electoral division, and included an agreement signed between Tunisia and Qatar Development Fund.
Moussi had previously warned of threats and harassment "to deter her from performing her parliamentary duties in the Tunisian parliament." She is known for consistently criticizing the practices of the Ennahda Movement, stating that she would not spare any effort to reveal what undermines Tunisia's sovereignty. Moussi has also taken to wearing a helmet on several occasions inside the Tunisian parliament building due to the tense atmosphere during the sessions.
