Lackluster Presidential Campaign in Tunisia Amidst Controversy
As Tunisia gears up for its presidential elections scheduled for October 6, a lackluster campaign has emerged, overshadowed by political tensions and the imprisonment of key candidates. The streets of Tunisia reflect a dismal atmosphere, with minimal visibility of campaign activities and a sense of indifference among citizens regarding the electoral process.
Outgoing President Kais Saied is seeking a second term but faces limited competition, primarily from Ayachi Zemal, the head of the 'Azimoun Movement,' who is currently imprisoned on charges of falsifying voter endorsements. Observers argue that this situation hampers the potential for a fair election, as Zemal is unable to conduct his campaign effectively.
The only candidate actively campaigning is Zuhair Al-Maghzawi, Secretary-General of the People's Movement, who has recently shifted his stance from supporting Saied to criticizing his administration. However, even Al-Maghzawi's efforts appear muted, as the current election lacks the promotional vigor seen in previous years. Campaign activities are virtually non-existent, with candidates' images and statements rarely displayed in public spaces, largely relegated to social media.
Bassam Moattar, head of the 'Ateed' association monitoring elections, attributes the weak campaign to a tense electoral atmosphere and the Election Commission's restrictive funding ceiling of 150,000 dinars (about $50,000), which is significantly lower than the 1.7 million dinars allowed in 2019. This financial limitation has stifled candidates' ability to reach out to the electorate effectively.
The situation has been exacerbated by the Administrative Court's decisions to reinstate three candidates, which the Election Commission has ignored, leading to further frustration among those excluded. The ongoing legal battles have contributed to a sense of hopelessness about the electoral process.
Despite these challenges, the campaign's most significant blow came with Zemal's sentencing to one year and eight months in prison, pending appeal. Observers worry that a swift trial could further complicate his ability to participate in the elections, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Critics, including Ennahda Movement leader Riadh Chaibi, argue that the election campaign has been tainted by restrictions and favoritism towards Saied, who continues to leverage state resources to promote his candidacy. The elections are being perceived as a means to consolidate Saied's power rather than a genuine democratic process.
As Tunisia approaches the elections, the absence of a vibrant campaign, coupled with public disillusionment and protests against Saied's policies, raises significant questions about the future of democracy in the country. With the electoral landscape appearing bleak, many citizens feel that the upcoming elections may merely serve to reaffirm Saied's authority rather than foster genuine political competition.
