Kais Saied's rhetoric emphasizes a confrontational stance against both domestic opposition and international entities, framing his governance as a form of liberation from perceived external and internal threats.
The significant voter boycott highlights widespread discontent with Saied's policies and governance style, indicating a potential disconnect between the government and the populace.
Saied's proposed cultural and legislative revolutions are seen as populist slogans that may not translate into meaningful change, raising concerns about the future of Tunisia's political landscape.
If the opposition fails to unify and adapt, Kais Saied may continue to consolidate power, leading to a further erosion of democratic institutions in Tunisia.
The economic challenges facing Tunisia could intensify, potentially leading to increased public unrest and demands for accountability from the government.
The international community's perception of Tunisia may worsen if authoritarian practices persist, affecting foreign relations and economic support.
Kais Saied's Second Term: A Call for Two Revolutions
In his recent inauguration speech, re-elected Tunisian President Kais Saied emphasized his commitment to continue the political, economic, and social changes initiated on July 25, 2021. Despite a significant voter boycott of 71.2%, Saied declared that the people's voices were heard during the October 6 elections. He framed his agenda as a 'war' against corruption and perceived threats to the state, using militaristic language to describe his opponents as 'traitors' and 'thieves.' This rhetoric aims to legitimize his rule while dismissing the declining living conditions and public dissatisfaction in Tunisia.
The Political Landscape and Saied's Vision
Saied's approach reflects a stark departure from the democratic transition that began in 2011, as he seeks to dismantle the previous political system, which he accuses of terrorism and undermining national unity. His government has already taken steps to eliminate components of the revolution, including the constitution and various political institutions. In his speech, Saied proposed two new 'revolutions': a cultural revolution and a legislative revolution, both of which lack clear definitions or actionable plans, raising concerns about their actual impact on the political climate in Tunisia.
Challenges Ahead for Tunisia
The speech has been met with silence across political and civil domains, suggesting a lack of engagement with Saied's proposals. The opposition faces a critical juncture, needing to adapt to the current political climate marked by authoritarianism and populism. To reclaim their role, they must build a new political culture centered on mutual recognition and coexistence, rather than exclusion. The future of Tunisia hinges on the opposition's ability to unite and effectively challenge Saied's regime, as the country stands at a crossroads between further descent into authoritarianism or a return to democratic governance.
