On October 6, 2024, Tunisia will hold a crucial presidential election amid growing worries about democracy and political freedom. The only candidates to challenge President Kais Saied are imprisoned liberal leader Ayachi Zammel and left-wing nationalist Zouhair Magzhaoui, frequently considered a puppet.
Azimoun leader Ayachi Zammel is spending 12 years for politically fabricated charges. Zammel runs for office while in prison, like Nabil Karoui in 2019. Many major opposition figures have been incarcerated or prohibited from voting, reflecting a broader crackdown.
Zouhair Magzhaoui, Echaab Movement leader, has supported Saied’s controversial policies and criticised political Islam. His support for Saied’s initiatives casts doubt on his electoral role.
The last parliamentary elections saw voter turnout decline to 11% due to public disenchantment and protests against civil liberties degradation. The Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE), condemned for its bias, has severely curtailed candidate eligibility, raising worries about electoral integrity.
The future of democracy in Tunisia is at stake in this election, one of the most important in recent history.
Image Credits: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/tunisia-holding-election-will-voters-show
