Tunisia 's historic elections are the sole point of hope for Arab democracy , analysts say . The election process began in October with a vote for parliament . ` The country has been ruled by a military junta since Ben Ali was ousted in January 2011 after mass protests against his rule and an uprising that left more than 100 people dead. `` country of the year '' Long-time politician Beji Caid Essebsi beats outgoing President Moncef Marzouki .
Tunisia 's historic elections are the sole point of hope for Arab democracy , analysts say . The country has been ruled by a military junta since Ben Ali was ousted in January 2011 after mass protests against his rule and an uprising that left more than 100 people dead. `` country of the year '' Long-time politician Beji Caid Essebsi beats outgoing President Moncef Marzouki .