The masses of the Tunisian popular uprising culminated yesterday their heroic struggle, that continued throughout the past four weeks against the regime of tyranny and oppression which had strangled them for about a quarter of a century, with a remarkable victory reflected in the shameful escape of the head of the collapsed regime, Zein al-Abidin Ben Ali, from the country, haunted by curses and besieged by condemnations.

In the course of their daily struggle, which was full of determination and perseverance and involved the people in all areas of the country including the capital Tunis, the rising masses made great sacrifices in blood and lives, and offered unforgettable examples on steadfastness, dedication and sacrifice.

The masses also demonstrated deep awareness when they linked, from the outset, their economic demands with political demands, raising the slogan of bread and freedom, and when they rejected the false promises of the vanquished President before he fled, and demanded that he should step down unconditionally.

The Tunisian masses are today demonstrating political maturity, as they reject and resist the ploys of the tyrant’s stooges who are maneuvering to perpetuate his hated regime even though without him, and as they exert efforts to chart Tunisia’s path towards real democracy.

While expressing our firm solidarity with the masses of the courageous Tunisian uprising and their patriotic and democratic forces, and sharing their joy for the victory they achieved yesterday, we recognize like them that this victory is only preliminary, and that the decisive and final victory is contingent on continuing the struggle until the overthrow of the whole of Ben Ali's authoritarian regime, in accordance with the eloquent slogan raised by the Tunisian masses: Insurrection, Insurrection Until the Regime Falls! And until the path ahead is wide-open for the establishment of a democratic regime as demanded by the masses, and for which they have given, and continue to render, great sacrifices.

What has happened in Tunisia is an example for our Arab peoples and all the peoples who are fighting for their freedom, bread and happiness, and for their legitimate aspirations in establishing the political, economic and social system which they desire:  a system of democracy, peace and social justice.

Political Bureau – Central Committee
Iraqi Communist Party
15 January 2011