Tunisia’s Presidential Election: A Step Backward for Democracy

On Sunday, Tunisians will vote in a presidential election deemed neither free nor fair, signaling a potential end to the country’s democratic transition that began post-Arab Spring. Incumbent President Kais Saied, who has systematically consolidated power, is seeking a second term amid a backdrop of disqualified opposition candidates and political detentions. The election marks a drastic shift from the previously observed democratic processes and raises concerns about Tunisia’s political future.

Tunisians are participating in a presidential election that, according to critics and experts, lacks both fairness and freedom. This election is perceived as a significant downturn in Tunisia’s struggle for democratic integrity that initially emerged after the Arab Spring in 2011. In contrast to its neighbors in the region that have faced turmoil and upheaval, Tunisia had seemed to develop a stable democracy. However, the recent political landscape suggests a trend towards autocracy, spurred by public discontent over economic hardships which many citizens believe require a strong leader. “If you just look at the broad form of it, it appears to be a normal, potentially democratic election,” remarked Sarah Yerkes, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Program. “But once you start to peel the layers off, it becomes very clear that this election is nowhere close to free or fair. This election really spells the end of Tunisia’s democratic transition.” The incumbent president, Kais Saied, was elected in 2019 amidst demands for a political shift in the wake of the Arab Spring. However, he has since undertaken measures that have undermined the democratic frameworks, including dismissing the prime minister and suspending parliament in July 2021, leading critics to label this an act of “self-coup”. Under his direction, critical shifts in the law have occurred, including the imposition of a new constitution that diminishes judicial independence. Now, as Saied seeks a second term, he faces little challenge due to the disqualification and imprisonment of many opposition candidates. “In the end, everyone who tried to run has been disqualified or thrown in jail, or both,” noted Yerkes, emphasizing the gravity of the situation concerning political dissent. This election comes after a significant increase in political detentions, with over 170 individuals jailed for either their political stances or critiques of the regime. The recent amendments to electoral law further consolidate Saied’s power, with much of the electoral commission under his control; an example of the systemic maneuvering in place. “He’s a constitutional law professor. He operates using legal — with legal in quotes — means,” Yerkes added, exposing the disingenuous nature of the purported legal processes in this electoral context. Furthermore, there continues to be a sense of disappointment from various sections of society regarding Saied’s governance, which was once filled with hope for reform and stability. Despite this, some citizens still express support for Saied, possibly indicating a complex relationship between governance and public expectation in Tunisia today. This electoral process starkly contrasts with prior elections which were deemed fair, and the overall sentiment reflects a society grappling with a profound loss of democratic progress amid governmental repression. While prospects for a genuine democratic election seem bleak, the upcoming vote will likely highlight the ongoing struggle between a repressive regime and the voices of dissenting citizens, who continue to advocate for a more equitable political landscape and adherence to their democratic rights.

Since the Arab Spring in 2011, Tunisia has undergone a tumultuous political transformation, seemingly moving towards democratic governance after widespread protests led to the ousting of longtime dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. In the years following, there was an emergence of various political parties and the strengthening of civil rights initiatives. However, recent events have indicated a troubling trend away from these democratic principles. President Kais Saied, initially elected in 2019, has systematically dismantled many of the democratic frameworks established during this era. His decision to concentrate power has drawn sharp criticism and raised alarms regarding the future of democracy in the nation. This election serves as a litmus test for Tunisia’s political environment and the resilience of its democratic aspirations.

The upcoming presidential election in Tunisia is marked by significant concerns over its fairness and the overall political integrity of the process. Kais Saied’s regime has engaged in actions that make it difficult for opposition candidates to participate meaningfully, sparking fears that this election may be the final blow to Tunisia’s democratic gains since the Arab Spring. The consolidation of power and legal manipulations to suppress dissent present a dire picture for those advocating for political freedom. As the nation heads to the polls, the potential for a pivotal democratic backslide looms large, with implications not only for Tunisia but also for the broader region.

Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com