Tunisia's President Kais Saied has suspended parliament; and sacked Prime Minister Hicham Mechichi after violent protests gripped the country paralyzing many cities.
In a video speech late Sunday, the Tunisian president added that he will discharge the duties of the executive with the assistance of a new prime minister who he will appoint later.
Saied said in his speech that his actions were in line with Article 80 of the constitution; and also cited the article to suspend the immunity of members of parliament.
"Many people were deceived by hypocrisy, treachery and robbery of the rights of the people," he said.
The announcement comes after the president held an emergency meeting with the country's military and security leaders on Sunday.
"I warn any who think of resorting to weapons… and whoever shoots a bullet, the armed forces will respond with bullets," he said in a warning to his opponents.
Meanwhile, crowds of people quickly flooded the capital's streets, cheering and honking car horns in support of the President decisions.
