The Rise of Fake Accounts in Tunisian Politics
In the lead-up to Tunisia's upcoming presidential elections, the influence of fake accounts on social media has surged, exacerbating the existing political polarization between supporters of President Kais Saied and his critics. These accounts are often created with the intent to manipulate public opinion, promoting specific political figures while targeting their opponents. The phenomenon of fake accounts has been a growing concern since the Arab Spring in 2011, as they have been involved in widespread manipulation campaigns that significantly affect electoral choices.
The Impact on Democratic Processes
Political communication expert Karim Bouzoueta notes that the effectiveness of these fake accounts has evolved over time. Initially, they were operated by party supporters, but more recently, international companies specializing in misinformation have taken over. They generate thousands of fake accounts and automated pages on platforms like Facebook, creating a substantial impact on Tunisia's democratic experience. As the elections approach, experts predict an increase in these accounts, which could potentially be influenced by external parties aiming to distort the electoral process.
Identifying and Combatting Fake Accounts
The Middle East Center for Democracy and local watchdog organizations have reported a significant uptick in the presence of fake accounts supporting President Saied since his controversial actions on July 25, 2021. These accounts often lack personal information and exhibit patterns typical of bot activity. Some have even been named after historical figures or sports teams to lend them credibility. The Independent High Authority for Elections has acknowledged the detrimental effect of these accounts on the electoral process, emphasizing the need for vigilance in monitoring such activities. As Tunisia heads toward its presidential elections on October 6, 2023, the role of fake accounts in shaping public opinion and influencing voter behavior remains a critical issue.
