John Esposito is encouraged by breaking reports that Ennahada, Tunisia's leading Islamist party, is leading the vote count:
Several secular parties, such as the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), have trailed Ennahda with expected five to 15 percent of the vote. PDP leaders have stated their intention post elections to build a coalition that would deliberately exclude Ennahda even if it emerges as the chief vote getter. In contrast Rached Ghannoushi of Ennahda looks to Turkey as an example, a source of inspiration not necessarily “the” model. Turkey's ruling Justice and Development party (AKP) secular system of government emphasize separation of religion and the state which provides space for belief and unbelief, pluralism and equality of citizenship and recognition of Turkey’s Muslim history and culture. Ennahda has advocated a government of national unity based on Tunisia’s Arab-Islamic identity and the desire to address common political, economic and social concerns. It speaks of government that is inclusive of all parties, secular or Islamist, accepting equality of citizenship, civil society and Tunisian women's rights.
The Dish 