Kais Saied Poised for Victory in Tunisia’s Presidential Election Amid Voter Apathy

In Tunisia’s presidential election, President Kais Saied is projected to achieve 89.2 percent of the vote amid low voter turnout of 27.7 percent. Critics allege election suppression with major opposition figures sidelined. Saied’s administration faces significant economic challenges, including high public debt, while voter apathy raises alarms about democratic processes in Tunisia.

Tunisia’s presidential election on Sunday revealed significant voter apathy, with only 27.7 percent of the electorate participating. According to an exit poll published by state television, incumbent President Kais Saied is poised to secure an overwhelming victory, garnering approximately 89.2 percent of the votes. This outcome would further entrench Saied’s authority following his consolidation of power in 2021, which included the suspension of parliament and the rewriting of the constitution. The official results of the election are anticipated to be announced later, but the election has been criticized by opposition groups who have labeled it a sham and called for a boycott. The president faced two opponents: imprisoned businessman Ayachi Zammel and leftist politician Zouhair Maghzaoui, a former ally. Despite various candidates expressing interest in the race, only three were approved by the election commission, which is heavily influenced by Saied’s administration. Saied’s tenure has been marred by economic difficulties, including a soaring public debt which exceeds 80 percent of Tunisia’s GDP, compounded by a significant current account deficit exacerbated by global inflation and recent geopolitical tensions. The Tunisian president has dismissed allegations of suppressing opposition candidates, asserting, “There are no restrictions on potential candidates for the presidential elections… this is nonsense and lies.” The increasing authoritarian tendencies demonstrated by his regime highlight a concerning trajectory for democratic practices in Tunisia since the 2011 Arab Spring.

The context surrounding Tunisia’s presidential election is rooted in the aftermath of the 2011 Arab Spring, which led to significant political changes in the country. President Kais Saied rose to power in 2019 amid widespread dissatisfaction with the existing political elites. Since taking office, Saied has faced mounting criticism due to his increasingly autocratic governance style, particularly after he suspended parliament and assumed greater powers in 2021, actions that were characterized by many as a coup d’état. Economic challenges have also plagued his administration, manifesting in escalating public debt and worsening trade imbalances, further igniting public frustration and political dissent. This election, held in a charged atmosphere of skepticism and turmoil, has raised serious questions about the future of democracy in Tunisia.

In summary, the impending landslide victory of President Kais Saied in Tunisia’s presidential election underscores a troubling trend of political disengagement among the electorate, evidenced by low voter turnout. The opposition’s failure to mount a substantial challenge raises concerns over the potential erosion of democratic norms within the country, particularly given the backdrop of Saied’s consolidation of power and ongoing economic difficulties. As Tunisia navigates these complex challenges, the future of its political landscape remains uncertain, with implications extending beyond its borders.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net