Hundreds Rally in Tunisia Urging Suspension of UGTT Union Amid Rising Political Tensions

In Tunisia, hundreds of supporters of President Kais Saied rallied outside the headquarters of the powerful UGTT union, demanding its suspension following a transport strike that paralyzed the country. The UGTT, one of the last major independent organizations in Tunisia, has been openly critical of Saied's concentration of power since he assumed sweeping authority in 2021, including dissolving parliament and ruling by decree. Protesters accused the union of being involved in disruptive activities, while the UGTT claimed the rally was orchestrated by authorities and criminal gangs targeting its headquarters. Union members counter-demonstrated to assert their independence and vowed to remain steadfast amid fears that Saied might attempt to dismantle or dissolve the union. Rights groups have highlighted Saied's ongoing moves to sideline opposition voices and civil society groups, intensifying concerns about democratic backsliding. The UGTT leadership is expected to decide on further actions in response to the escalating political tensions.