Tunisian President Begi Caid Essebsi announced on Monday the extension of the state of emergency throughout Tunisian territories by another month.

In the statement issued, the presidency announced that the decision came after consultations between President Essebsi, Prime Minister Habib Essid, and President of People’s Representatives Assembly Mohammed Naser.

Tunisia imposed a state of emergency last year after the November 24 suicide attack on a bus carrying presidential security guards that killed 13 people in the capital Tunis.

This security measure allows authorities to ban strikes and demonstrations, temporarily close theaters and pubs and to “take all measures to ensure the control of press and publications of all kinds,” the statement added. Essebsi praised the progress but stressed on additional procedures in case of any possible threat.

Meanwile, head of Electoral Commission Shafiq Sursar announced the launch of the first stage of elections of Supreme Judicial Council.

During a press conference, Sursar announced Monday that the lists were published on the commission’s website. He stated that the lists now include 13,122 voters, adding that anyone who wants to object to them has until August 1.

According to a source, the elections will take place on October 23 and the preliminary results will be announced on the commission’s website as soon as votes are counted.

Meanwhile, the Temporary Judicial Council asked the Minister of Justice the respect and independence of the judicial system and separation of powers.

Similarly, the council asked the judges not to succumb to pressure that might influence their decision.

The council’s statement was issued after employees at Tozeur governorate’s post office unexpectedly went on strike over the suspension of the head of the post office.

Despite the union’s demands to release the employee, the Temporary Judicial Council confirmed that any review of any verdict is done through judicial commissions.