Tunisia Protests: Demonstrators Demand Change Amid Economic and Political Woes
As Tunisia’s presidential campaign season officially begins, thousands of protesters took to the streets of the capital on Saturday to voice their discontent with the country’s deteriorating state. The demonstrations come as President Kais Saied prepares to campaign for reelection on October 6.
Samia Abbou, a former Tunisian assembly member who participated in the protest, accused Saied of failing on multiple fronts. “He has failed to address the economic and political crises facing the country,” she said. Other demonstrators echoed her sentiments, carrying signs that highlighted the growing costs of staple items and concerns about civil liberties.
The protests follow a week of unprecedented arrests by the authorities, with the country’s largest opposition party, Ennahda, reporting that its senior members had been detained en masse. This comes as Saied seeks to consolidate his power and rewrite the constitution.
Since taking office in 2019, Saied has used anti-corruption promises to win over disillusioned voters. However, his tenure has been marked by the arrest of journalists, activists, and political opponents across the ideological spectrum. The country’s unemployment rate has also continued to rise, reaching 16% – one of the highest in the region.
Young Tunisians, in particular, are feeling the brunt of the economic crisis. Sghaier Zakraoui, a demonstrator, expressed concern about the growing number of political figures being thrown in jail under Saied. “I want to ensure that there are no more attacks on civil rights,” he said.
The protests mark a significant challenge to Saied’s authority, as he seeks to secure a second term in office. With the country’s economy and political landscape in disarray, the demonstrators are demanding change and accountability from their leaders.
