The leader of Tunisia's powerful Islamist party says that an agreement is imminent on a new national unity government to resolve the simmering political crisis brought on by the assassination of an opposition politician.

Rachid Ghannouchi, leader of the moderate Islamist Ennahda party, told The Associated Press on Monday that there are ongoing consultations with all political parties, and a new government is expected to be announced in two or three days.

Last week's assassination of Chokri Belaid resulted in days of rioting after many held the government responsible for his death and came as negotiations to widen the governing coalition had been deadlocked.

Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali, also of Ennahda, proposed a government of technocrats to lead the country and resolve the crisis. His own party rejected the move.