Tunisia Prepares for Controversial Presidential Election

Tunisia is set to hold a presidential election on Sunday against a backdrop of significant repression, with many critics of the incumbent president, Kais Saied, imprisoned. Saied, who has consolidated power since taking office in 2019, is expected to win easily as the opposition is effectively sidelined, with only two candidates remaining, one of whom has just been jailed for forgery. Voter turnout is anticipated to be low, reflecting public disapproval of Saied's tenure, which has seen a crackdown on dissent and a disregard for democratic norms. Human rights organizations have condemned the government's treatment of undocumented migrants, while the European Union continues to support Tunisia with funding aimed at curbing irregular migration. The political landscape has shifted significantly from Tunisia's earlier democratic aspirations following the Arab Spring, marking a stark regression in civil liberties and electoral integrity. Observers highlight that the electoral process has been manipulated, with key candidates disqualified or imprisoned, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the upcoming vote.