Kais Saied's Divine Mission to Save Tunisia
Tunisian President Kais Saied is currently seeking a second term in the upcoming presidential elections, framing his candidacy as a “divine mission” to rescue Tunisia from what he describes as foreign conspiracies. Despite a lack of traditional campaigning, Saied has relied on previous visits to impoverished neighborhoods, where he passionately denounces the alleged enemies of Tunisia, both at home and abroad.
At 66 years old, Saied was first elected in 2019 with the slogan “The People Want,” and he garnered significant support when he assumed full powers in July 2021 to combat corruption. However, three years later, organizations like Amnesty International have raised alarms over a concerning decline in fundamental rights in Tunisia, citing an authoritarian shift that undermines the achievements of the 2011 revolution that ousted former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
In recent months, a crackdown on opposition has intensified, with numerous political figures, businessmen, and journalists facing arrests. Five leftist opposition parties have called for a boycott of the upcoming elections, labeling them undemocratic and criticizing Saied’s governance as a failure, particularly in light of rising unemployment, inflation, and economic stagnation.
Saied’s administration has faced criticism for disqualifying prominent candidates from the election, despite court rulings in their favor. Supporters, however, view him as a serious leader hindered by “invisible hands” of corruption and mafia influence. His limited media presence and reliance on social media for communication have drawn scrutiny, as many Tunisians feel disconnected from his vision.
Despite the challenges, Saied remains committed to what he calls a “war of national liberation”, promising a new direction for Tunisia while facing criticism for his vague proposals. His administration emphasizes sovereignty and self-reliance, even as the economy grapples with high debts and unemployment rates. Saied, a former constitutional law professor, continues to advocate for a Tunisia free from foreign influence, but the path forward remains uncertain.
