Tunisia’s Youth Divided as Presidential Election Looms
As Tunisia prepares for its presidential election on October 6th, a sense of uncertainty and mixed emotions has settled over the country’s youth. While some see the vote as a chance for change, others are eager to leave the country, citing a lack of opportunity.
Seddik Malki, a 25-year-old fruit vendor, is one of those who has given up on Tunisia’s political system. “I want to tell the youth: leave through the sea; there is nothing that keeps us here in Tunisia… I have no future here,” he says, expressing the frustration and disillusionment many young Tunisians feel.
However, not everyone is so pessimistic. Lotfi Hamdi, a 32-year-old street vendor, is hopeful that the election will bring about positive change. “I hope that whoever wins the presidential elections will fix the country and pay attention to the youth, especially the high cost of living,” he says, echoing the sentiments of many Tunisians who are eager for a better future.
Despite the mixed emotions, President Kais Saied is seeking another term in office. However, his chances of winning are complicated by the fact that his major opponents are either in prison or barred from running. Saied has been accused of stifling political competition and accumulating power in his own hands, leading to widespread criticism and concern about the direction of the country.
The election is being held with only two candidates given the green light to run against Saied, who has suspended parliament since taking power in 2019. The lack of opposition and the dominance of Saied’s party has led to concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the election.
As Tunisia’s youth navigate the complexities of the upcoming election, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to find a way to exercise their right to vote and bring about the change they desire.
