On Saturday, thousands of Tunisians took to the streets of the capital city to protest against what they view as the worsening state of their country. This demonstration coincided with the official launch of the presidential election campaign, underscoring the growing discontent among citizens.
Samia Abbou, a former assembly member and one of the protestors, openly criticized President Kais Saied for his perceived failures to address crucial issues. Abbou and other demonstrators pointed to the country’s mounting economic difficulties and political instability. They carried placards highlighting the rising prices of essential goods and voiced concerns about increasing restrictions on civil liberties.
The protests come more than a decade after the ousting of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in 2011, a pivotal event that sparked similar uprisings across the Arab world. Despite the initial promise of political reform and stability, many Tunisians feel that the country’s trajectory has not improved under the current leadership.
Another protester, expressed deep concern about the increasing number of political figures being jailed under Saied’s administration. All the people are worried that these actions signal a broader crackdown on civil rights and political freedoms.
These demonstrations follow a week of significant political developments. Tunisia’s largest opposition party, Ennahda, reported a record number of arrests of its senior members, a move that has raised alarm about the state of political pluralism and democracy in the country.
As President Saied prepares to campaign for reelection on October 6, his promises of combating corruption and revitalizing the economy resonate with voters who are disillusioned by the political controversies that have plagued Tunisia since the Arab Spring. Saied’s initial 2019 campaign focused on addressing corruption, which appealed to a populace weary of political scandals.
However, since taking office, Saied has concentrated power by suspending the parliament and amending the constitution. His presidency has also been marked by a crackdown on journalists, activists, and political adversaries. These actions have sparked fears that his government is undermining democratic institutions and suppressing dissent.
Despite Saied’s assurances of reform and progress, Tunisia’s unemployment rate has climbed to one of the highest in the region at 16%, with young people particularly affected by the economic downturn. This economic hardship, combined with political instability, has fueled widespread frustration and led many to question the direction of their country’s future.
