Tunisian Candidate Ayachi Zammel Detained Ahead of Election

Tunisia's public prosecutor has detained presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel on accusations of falsifying endorsements, a move seen by critics as an attempt by incumbent President Kais Saied to eliminate political opponents ahead of the October 6 election. Zammel, one of only two candidates remaining against Saied, was arrested on Monday and remains in custody pending trial, with his lawyer vowing that the campaign will continue regardless of his incarceration. The Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE) has faced backlash for dismissing three other candidates, raising concerns about the electoral commission's independence and the legitimacy of the upcoming vote. Human rights groups and political parties have expressed fears that the current political climate threatens democracy in Tunisia, with reports of multiple opposition figures being prosecuted. Zammel's arrest adds to the ongoing political tensions, as his supporters claim the charges are unfounded and part of a larger strategy to suppress dissent. Observers are increasingly worried about the implications for Tunisia's democratic processes following recent events.