Tunisia’s presidential election on October 6, 2024, recorded a turnout below 30%, with significant voter apathy. President Kais Saied faced two challengers, one imprisoned and the other a former ally. Despite signs of diminished enthusiasm, some voters emphasized their responsibility to participate in shaping the nation’s future. The election process was marred by claims of authoritarianism, as only three candidates were allowed to run, amid arrests of potential opponents.
On October 6, 2024, Tunisia held its presidential election amidst significant voter apathy, achieving a turnout of less than 30%. The election featured President Kais Saied, who is seeking re-election, against two challengers: imprisoned businessman Ayachi Zammel and leftist Zouhair Maghzaoui, a former ally of Saied. The atmosphere in Tunisia’s capital suggested minimal enthusiasm for the electoral process, following a campaign characterized by widespread arrests of Saied’s potential rivals. Despite the tumultuous nature of Saied’s first term, including invoking emergency powers in 2021 and modifying the constitution to enhance presidential authority, he is anticipated to secure a straightforward victory, particularly with Zammel incarcerated. Opposition parties largely boycotted the election, labeling it an authoritarian endeavor. However, there remains a faction of voters who deem participation a civic duty, emphasizing the necessity to demonstrate involvement in shaping Tunisia’s future. Many noted, however, that turnout remains below previous elections, notably the 49% participation in the first round of the 2019 presidential election. A total of 2.7 million voters, amounting to 27.7% of the electorate, participated, a figure rising from the alarming turnout of less than 12% observed in the last parliamentary and local elections. The electoral commission, composed of individuals appointed by President Saied, permitted only three candidates, dismissing others despite a court order to include them. This context underscores the challenges facing Tunisian democracy in light of recent political developments.
The political landscape in Tunisia has been precarious since the Arab Spring, with President Kais Saied having risen to power amidst widespread discontent towards the traditional political class. His initial term saw a notable shift towards consolidating presidential powers, leading to concerns regarding authoritarianism in governance. With his primary competitors now imprisoned, this election is viewed through a lens of diminished competition, raising questions about the legitimacy and future direction of Tunisia’s democracy.
The presidential election in Tunisia on October 6, 2024, reflects significant challenges within the political framework, characterized by voter apathy and restrictions on opposition candidates. Kais Saied’s anticipated victory signals a continuation of his controversial policies, while the widespread boycott and limited participation raise critical concerns about the health of Tunisia’s democracy going forward.
Original Source: apnews.com
