About four years ago, a man named Mohamed Bouazizi set himself ablaze to protest the dismal socio-political and economic conditions in Tunisia. This gave birth to the Arab Spring revolts that were replicated in Libya, Egypt and Yemen.

Tunisians must not lose sight of what they fought for. They should also acknowledge that freedoms, inclusive growth and opportunity do not happen overnight. They require institutions that will nurture them.  The country already has a plus for adopting a new Constitution which embraces separation of powers and accountable institutions. This needs speedy implementation.

The success of Tunisia calls for patience and cooperation of all political parties, civil society, and other actors to reverse the legacy of dictatorship. Tunisians must be wary of conflict entrepreneurs and peace-blockers who deliberately hatch conflicts and prolong them to gain political and economic mileage.