Tunisia’s Election Proceeds With Saied as Clear Frontrunner, Critics in Jail
Tunisia held its presidential election on Sunday, with incumbent President Kais Saied expected to secure a second term. The election, held across 24 provinces, has drawn criticism due to the imprisonment or exclusion of several of Saied’s political challengers. The two remaining candidates are Zouhair Maghzaoui, head of the People’s Movement, and businessman Ayachi Zammel, who is currently serving prison sentences for election-related charges.
Saied has been in power since 2019 and has faced increasing backlash for his consolidation of power, particularly after he dissolved Parliament in 2021 and rewrote the constitution to grant the presidency more authority. His actions have drawn accusations of authoritarianism, leading opposition groups to call for a boycott of the election.
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Tunisia, once celebrated as a democratic success following the Arab Spring, now struggles with high unemployment and economic instability. Saied’s critics argue that he has failed to address these issues, instead focusing on centralizing power. Despite this, many Tunisians have grown disillusioned with the political process and see no viable alternative.
The final election results are expected to be announced by November 9.
