He rapidly emerged , therefore , not merely as the constitutional president , but also as the commander in chief of the army .
In justification of the coup Zine El Abidine Ben Ali invoked Article 57 of the constitution , as he assumed power .
Zine El Abidine Ben Ali rapidly emerged , therefore , not merely as the constitutional president , but also as the commander in chief of the army .
In justification of the coup Zine El Abidine Ben Ali invoked Article 57 of the constitution , as he assumed power .