Tunisia is currently experiencing significant political upheaval as President Kais Saied makes sweeping changes just weeks before the presidential elections. On the eve of the elections scheduled for October 6, Saied dismissed all governors and appointed 24 new ones, a move that has raised eyebrows among the opposition, who label the electoral climate as 'rotten.' This shake-up follows the recent dismissal of the entire government led by Ahmed El-Hachani, with Kamal El-Madouri stepping in as the new Prime Minister along with 21 new ministers. Critics argue that these changes aim to consolidate power and ensure loyalty ahead of the elections.
Opposition leaders express concern that these appointments are politically motivated, designed to bolster Saied's control over the election process. Hisham Al-Ajbouni, leader of the Democratic Current Party, suggests that the new governors will play a crucial role in supervising the elections and mobilizing support for Saied. He highlights the troubling state of the electoral commission, which has been criticized for its lack of neutrality and the judicial harassment faced by opposition candidates.
Najib Chebbi, leader of the Salvation Front, emphasizes the instability that has plagued Saied's regime since he assumed exceptional powers in 2021. He argues that the recent dismissals reflect a broader pattern of governance characterized by unpredictability and repression. As the political landscape shifts, the upcoming elections appear to be more about affirming Saied's authority than offering a genuine democratic choice.
Despite the opposition's concerns, Saied's supporters argue that the new appointments are necessary for effective governance and public service. With only a few candidates left in the race and allegations of fabricated charges against some, including Ayachi Zemal, the situation in Tunisia remains tense as the nation approaches a critical juncture in its political history.
- The political environment in Tunisia has been increasingly polarized, with President Saied's government facing accusations of undermining democratic principles. The opposition claims that the electoral process has been compromised, citing the lack of an impartial electoral commission and restrictions on media coverage. This has led to widespread skepticism about the fairness of the upcoming elections.
- The dismissals and appointments of governors are seen as a strategic maneuver by Saied to reinforce his grip on power. As governors have significant authority in their regions, their loyalty is crucial for Saied's plans to secure a second term. The opposition argues that this tactic is part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and control the political narrative leading up to the elections.
- As the election date approaches, the atmosphere in Tunisia remains charged, with ongoing discussions about the future of democracy in the country. The actions taken by President Saied could have lasting implications for Tunisia's political landscape, especially in light of the recent history of political instability and public discontent.
