Moderate socialist economic program is introduced. 1969 Agricultural collectivization program, begun 1964, abandoned. Bourguiba becomes president for life. UGTT leadership replaced with PSD loyalists. 1980 New prime minister Muhammed Mazli ushers in greater political tolerance.
Opposition groups allege electoral malpractice.
1984 Widespread riots after food price increases. Gen. Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali becomes interior minister. Four Muslim fundamentalists sentenced to death. 1987 Fundamentalist leader Rachid Gannouchi arrested. Most political prisoners released.