Tunisia’s Presidential Election: Kais Saied Set for Dominant Victory as Voter Turnout Plummets

Kais Saied is projected to win Tunisia’s presidential election with approximately 89.2 percent of the vote amid record low voter turnout, under 30 percent. His opponents have faced significant marginalization, and public discontent has risen due to economic challenges and Saied’s consolidation of power since 2021, following his controversial constitutional changes and the suspension of parliament. The election has been labeled a sham by the opposition, highlighting the growing disengagement from the political process.

In Tunisia’s presidential election, President Kais Saied is poised to secure a tremendous victory, projected to receive 89.2 percent of the vote according to an exit poll aired on state television on Sunday. This anticipated outcome would further solidify his authority, particularly following his power consolidation in 2021. Official results, however, are expected to be released on Monday evening. Voter disengagement characterized this election, with less than 30 percent of eligible voters participating, marking a significant decline from the nearly 50 percent turnout witnessed in the 2019 election’s initial round. Saied faced two opponents in this election: imprisoned businessman Ayachi Zammel and former ally turned leftist candidate Zouhair Maghzaoui. The latter’s marginalization was notable, contributing to Saied’s likelihood of an easy win. Kais Saied, who was a law professor prior to his ascendancy, capitalized on widespread dissatisfaction with the political elite that emerged post-Arab Spring. His presidency has been marked by economic challenges and a noticeable increase in his political power after suspending parliament in 2021 and altering the constitution. The organized opposition has condemned the election, labeling it a sham and urging a boycott. When polling concluded, approximately 2.7 million voters, or 27.7 percent of the electorate, had participated. Despite a number of candidates initially expressing interest in running against Saied, only three received approval from the election commission, which is entirely presidentially appointed. Since his election in 2019, President Saied has garnered criticism for democratic backsliding. In 2021, he disbanded the parliament and assumed control through decrees, a move many observers have characterized as a coup. Saied has firmly dismissed claims of imposing restrictions on potential candidates, stating, “There are no restrictions on potential candidates for the presidential elections… this is nonsense and lies.” He also reaffirmed his dismissal of foreign interference in Tunisian sovereignty. Tunisia’s economy is beset by persistent challenges including escalating public debt, which surged to over 80 percent of the national income, compared to less than 40 percent prior to the Arab Spring. Moreover, the current account deficit has reached 15 percent of GDP, exacerbated by soaring costs for imported goods amid global inflation and the ramifications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The context of the presidential election in Tunisia involves a backdrop of political turbulence and economic strain following the Arab Spring revolutions of 2011. The current political landscape since President Kais Saied took office in 2019 has been characterized by increasing authoritarianism and significant shifts in governance. His suspension of parliament in 2021 and subsequent constitutional revisions have drawn scrutiny and accusations of undermining democratic processes. Voter turnout in this election highlights a growing disillusionment among the populace, as many feel unrepresented by the current leadership. Additionally, Tunisia’s longstanding economic issues, including rising debt and trade deficits, continue to exacerbate national grievances, influencing public sentiment towards the electoral process.

In summary, Tunisia’s presidential election is poised to further entrench Kais Saied’s rule amidst alarming voter apathy, which has seen participation drop to unprecedented lows. This trend illustrates a profound public disenchantment with the political process, driven by Saied’s consolidation of power and ongoing economic hardships. The upcoming official results may further underscore the challenges facing Tunisian democracy as the country navigates its complex political and economic landscape.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net