Tunisia’s presidential election on Sunday saw an unusually low voter turnout, with just 27.7% of eligible voters heading to the polls. This marks a significant decline in participation compared to the country’s previous elections. The election, which is Tunisia’s third since the Arab Spring revolution that ended decades of dictatorship, was closely watched both locally and internationally, with many questioning the health of Tunisia’s young democracy.
Exit polls suggest President Kais Saied is poised for a resounding victory, with early figures from public television showing him leading with more than 89% of the vote. His two challengers, both relatively unknown to the public, failed to gain significant traction. Saied’s overwhelming lead has sparked celebrations among his supporters, who gathered in the streets of Tunis, waving flags and portraits of the president.
Naoufel Saied, the president’s brother, praised the exit poll results, stating they reflect “the deep confidence Tunisians have in Kais Saied” and predicted that his re-election would ensure stability in the country.
However, the mood surrounding the election has been overshadowed by growing concerns over declining voter engagement. The turnout, at 27.7%, represents a steep drop from the 49% participation rate seen during the first round of the 2019 election, signaling widespread voter apathy.
This low turnout comes amid an election boycott by opposition parties, who accuse Saied of consolidating authoritarian power. Since taking office, the 66-year-old former law professor has faced growing criticism for imprisoning political rivals and unilaterally pushing through constitutional changes. His actions have sparked fears that Tunisia, once hailed as a democratic success story of the Arab Spring, may be sliding back into authoritarian rule.
As President Saied’s supporters celebrate his anticipated landslide victory, the political landscape remains tense, with many questioning what the future holds for Tunisia’s fragile democracy. The official election results are expected on Monday, which will provide a clearer picture of the country’s next steps amid rising uncertainty.