Tunisia will conduct a presidential election on October 6, according to a statement from President Kais Saied’s office on Tuesday.
It is uncertain whether Saied will seek re-election for a new five-year term, having first been elected in 2019.
Saied, a constitutional expert, assumed full power in 2021, governing through decrees after dissolving parliament and removing the prime minister.
This move led to the imprisonment of many political opponents.
In 2022, he successfully implemented a new constitution, establishing a presidential system with a weakened parliament.
The upcoming election, scheduled for October 6, 2024, was announced in a statement from Saied’s office on July 2, 2024.
The political turmoil following Saied’s consolidation of power has significantly impacted Tunisia’s economy, with high unemployment and poverty rates.
Diaspora Digital Media and that the crackdown on media has resulted in the prosecution of over 60 journalists, lawyers, and political opponents.
Despite efforts to secure a $2 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, negotiations have been stalled since 2021 due to Saied’s refusal to implement requested reforms. However, in June, the European Investment Bank announced grants and loans totaling 450 million euros to support infrastructure projects and small to medium-sized enterprises.
The crisis has led thousands of Tunisians to attempt dangerous boat journeys to Europe in search of better opportunities. The presidential election is seen as a crucial moment for Tunisia’s future, with the country facing significant economic and political challenges.