Tunisia's Political Turmoil: Saied's Authoritarian Grip Tightens

Tunisia's presidential election has been overshadowed by the near-certain victory of incumbent Kais Saied, amid accusations of authoritarianism and political repression. With major opposition figures imprisoned or barred from running, Saied faces minimal competition, his main rivals being Zouhair Maghzaoui and Ayachi Zammel, the latter of whom is currently incarcerated.

Since his landslide victory in 2019, Saied has transitioned from a symbol of democratic hope to a leader accused of consolidating power through undemocratic means. In 2021, he dissolved parliament, and later restructured the judiciary and the electoral commission to align with his vision. A 2022 constitutional referendum further solidified his control, effectively granting him autocratic power.

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have decried the regression of democratic freedoms in Tunisia. They highlight the detainment of over 170 political figures and activists, pointing to a worrying decline in civil liberties in the nation once hailed as a beacon of the Arab Spring.

Despite economic struggles, including high unemployment and inflation, Saied has maintained a firm stance against IMF-imposed conditions, opting instead to strengthen ties with non-traditional partners like Iran and China. This economic hardship, coupled with Saied's divisive rhetoric, has further polarized the Tunisian populace.

While Saied's supporters remain loyal, critics have raised concerns over election integrity, fearing manipulation of the democratic process. Protests in Tunis reflect a simmering unrest, as citizens call for a return to democratic norms and the end of Saied's controversial rule. As Tunisia grapples with these challenges, the future of its democracy hangs in the balance.