Will next month’s election in Tunisia be free and fair?
Sep 5, 2024
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Tunisia is bracing for a crucial presidential election amidst political unrest. Key leaders have been arrested, raising concerns over the fairness of the electoral process. President Kais Saied's controversial decisions, including suspending parliament and dismissing ministers, have sparked accusations of power grabs. The podcast delves into the oppressive political climate, the suppression of opposition, and the struggles for democracy and judicial independence that define contemporary Tunisia. As the nation faces disillusionment, the resilience of its political prisoners shines through.
The political environment in Tunisia has become increasingly oppressive, with arrests of opposition leaders and a crackdown on press freedom, raising concerns about the upcoming election's fairness.
Amidst worsening economic challenges and public discontent, the electoral campaign has shifted focus away from economic issues to eligibility and control over the election process.
Deep dives
Political Turmoil in Tunisia
Tensions in Tunisia escalated after President Kais Saied's coup in July 2021, which led to the suspension of parliament and a shake-up of the government. As a result of this turmoil, authorities have criminalized political dissent, leading to the imprisonment of numerous opposition figures, including veterans of the political landscape. This crackdown on dissent has fostered an atmosphere of fear among journalists and citizens alike, leading to a significant decline in freedoms and self-censorship. As elections approach in October 2024, doubts regarding their fairness and the political empowerment of the opposition emerge amid widespread discontent with the existing government.
Impact of Economic Struggles
Tunisians continue to grapple with severe economic challenges that have worsened over the last 12 years, sparking public frustration towards the government. Despite promises for social justice and improvements by President Saied, little progress has been made, leaving many citizens disillusioned and unwilling to participate in political discussions. The focus of the electoral campaign has shifted away from pressing economic issues to the concerns over eligibility and control in the elections. Opposition figures face bans and imprisonment, which limits their ability to bring economic issues to the forefront as they prepare for the electoral process.
Censorship and Media Constraints
After the coup, President Saied imposed strict measures that drastically reduced press freedom, leading to an environment where journalists face persecution for expressing dissent. The media landscape in Tunisia has shifted towards a climate of self-censorship, where political discussions are largely absent from mainstream media outlets. Today, only regime-approved candidates are competing in the upcoming elections, leaving no space for varied political discourse. The closure of public discussions highlights the drastic change from the freedoms experienced post-revolution, creating an ongoing struggle for those advocating for democratic ideals in Tunisia.
The people of Tunisia are expected to elect a new president in October.
But the build-up to the election has been marred by controversy with key political leaders being arrested and some journalists leaving the country.
It all started in July 2021 when president Kais Saied suspended parliament and sacked the prime minister.
These events were triggered by anger over the government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak and the economic and social turmoil.
President Saied defended his decision to dissolve the government saying he acted in accordance with the constitution.
But now he has, once again, come under fire after sacking 19 cabinet ministers.
Some say he’s attempting to cling on to power.
But he denies this, saying his move was necessary for the sake of Tunisia’s national security.
Presenter: Alan Kasujja
Guests: Amine Snoussi and Dr. Yusra Ghannouchi
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