Response to Parliamentary Questions on 2026 Budget
During a joint plenary session of the two legislative chambers at the Bardo Palace on Tuesday evening, dedicated to examining the 2026 budget of the ministry, the Minister of Religious Affairs, Ahmed Bouhali, formally stated that his ministry does not control the cost of the Hajj (pilgrimage).
Explanation of Cost Responsibility
The Minister explained that the cost of the pilgrimage falls under the jurisdiction of the Saudi side. However, he emphasized that the Tunisian state is making efforts to limit this high expense while ensuring adequate conditions for the fulfillment of the rites.
Details on Accompanying Delegation
In this context, the Minister revealed that the number of accompaniers in the Tunisian delegation for this year is only 219 people. These accompaniers are divided into four parts:
- Religious guides
- Accompaniers
- Medical mission
- Tunisair company
He specified that this number is fixed by the Saudi authorities and not by Tunisia.
Selection of Religious Guides
Finally, he insisted that the selection of religious guides accompanying the pilgrims is done without favoritism, with their choice being governed by precise specifications, taking into account their direct link with the pilgrims.
