Tunisian parties decide to hold legislative election first before presidential vote

TUNIS, Tunisia – Tunisian politicians have resolved a longstanding dispute and agreed to hold a parliamentary election before the country's presidential vote.

Negotiator Mohammed Fadhel Mahfoudh announced Friday that the committee composed of political parties had finally agreed to the election order.

Holding legislative elections first had been the preference of the moderate Islamist Ennahda Party, which holds the most seats in the outgoing assembly. The opposition had preferred that the presidential election, which they believe they will win, to be held first.

Friday's decision paves the way to set a date for the elections before the end of the year.

Tunisians overthrew their dictator in 2011 and wrote a new constitution in January.