Tunisia's Presidential Elections: A Silent Prelude to Controversy
As Tunisia approaches its presidential elections on Sunday, the country has entered a period of electoral silence, following a contentious three-week campaign. The election features three candidates, including former MP Ayachi Zemal, who is currently imprisoned on charges of forging endorsements. This election cycle has been marred by allegations of unfair practices and widespread protests against outgoing President Kais Saied, who is seeking re-election.
The electoral commission has reported that over 9.7 million Tunisians, including 642,000 voters abroad, are eligible to participate in the election. Voting for overseas citizens began two days ago and will conclude on Sunday, coinciding with the voting in Tunisia itself. Preliminary results are expected to be announced by the electoral commission no later than Wednesday.
Despite the official silence, activists have taken to social media, claiming that detained candidate Ayachi Zemal is leading the vote abroad. However, the electoral commission has dismissed these claims as “fake news” and threatened legal action against those disseminating such information. The commission has faced criticism for its refusal to reinstate prominent candidates who were disqualified, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process.
In the lead-up to the elections, protests erupted in the capital, Tunis, where demonstrators condemned the election conditions and the exclusion of key candidates. Protesters have described the elections as a 'farce', holding banners that decry the current regime and demand the release of political prisoners accused of conspiring against state security. President Kais Saied has responded to these protests by asserting his commitment to eradicating corruption and restoring national integrity, labeling his opponents as traitors.
As the nation braces for the elections, the atmosphere remains charged with tension and uncertainty, reflecting deep divisions within Tunisian society and politics.
