Tunisian President Kais Saied is expected to win the presidential election with around 89.2 percent of the vote amid a voter turnout of less than 30 percent. This election reflects significant public apathy and political disillusionment, as opposition calls for a boycott label the process a sham. Saied’s tenure has been characterized by increased authoritarianism and economic challenges, pointing to a complex political landscape post-Arab Spring.
Tunisian President Kais Saied appears poised for a significant victory in the presidential election, with exit polls indicating he may secure as much as 89.2 percent of the vote. This electoral success is anticipated to bolster Saied’s authority after his controversial consolidation of power in 2021. As official results remain pending until Monday evening, the election is notable for its low voter engagement, with less than 30 percent of eligible voters participating, reflecting widespread apathy during what represents Tunisia’s third presidential election since the Arab Spring uprising in 2011. President Saied faced two challengers in this election: imprisoned businessman Ayachi Zammel and leftist contender Zouhair Maghzaoui, a former ally. The political landscape has heavily favored Saied, as his opponents have been effectively marginalized. Saied, an academic turned politician, has leveraged widespread dissatisfaction with the post-revolution political elite to consolidate his position, particularly following his 2021 suspension of parliament and amendments to the constitution. The election has been marked by significant calls for a boycott from opposition entities, branding the electoral process as a façade. By the close of polls, approximately 2.7 million voters, representing a turnout of 27.7 percent, had cast their ballots, a notable decrease from the 49 percent turnout seen in the first round of the 2019 election. Despite initial enthusiasm from potential candidates, only three were authorized to run, a determination made by an election commission that operates under presidential appointment. Since ascending to power, Saied has taken steps to diminish parliamentary authority, which his critics characterize as a coup d’état. Saied has expressed his resolve to avoid transferring power to groups he designates as “non-patriots.” In response to accusations regarding candidate restrictions, he has dismissed such claims as delusions, asserting, “There are no restrictions on potential candidates for the presidential elections… this is nonsense and lies.” Moreover, Tunisia’s economic challenges persist, with public debt rising to above 80 percent of GDP—double the figure from 2010—coupled with a current account deficit reaching 15 percent of GDP. This economic downturn has been exacerbated by global inflation and disruptions related to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The 2011 Arab Spring in Tunisia marked a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape, initiating a complex journey towards democracy. Since then, Tunisia has conducted multiple elections, yet recent years have witnessed a decline in democratic practices under President Kais Saied, who assumed office in 2019. Following the suspension of parliament and the rewriting of the constitution in 2021, criticism regarding political repression has intensified, underscoring concerns about the state of democracy in the nation. Public discontent over economic instability, rising costs, and unemployment has fueled calls for political reform and opposition to Saied’s increasingly authoritarian governance style. The context of this election reflects the complexities of Tunisia’s current political climate, deepening divisions, and the electorate’s growing disillusionment.
In summary, President Kais Saied is anticipated to achieve a decisive victory in Tunisia’s presidential election amidst a backdrop of low voter turnout and significant opposition calls for electoral boycotts. With more than 89 percent of the vote projected based on exit polls, Saied’s continued consolidation of power raises serious concerns regarding the future of democracy in Tunisia. The economic challenges faced by the nation further complicate the political situation, as public sentiment remains fraught with frustration and a yearning for substantial reform.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
