Tunisian Election Controversy: Accusations of Intimidation and Bias

Tunisian opposition parties, presidential candidates, and human rights groups are accusing authorities of implementing arbitrary restrictions and intimidation tactics to ensure President Kais Saied's re-election. With mounting criticism of government control over media and the judiciary, opposition candidates face significant obstacles leading up to the October 6 election.

Tunisian opposition parties, presidential candidates, and human rights groups have raised serious allegations against the authorities, asserting that arbitrary restrictions and intimidation tactics are being employed to secure the re-election of President Kais Saied on October 6.

President Saied, who dissolved parliament in 2021 and has since ruled by decree, announced his bid for a second term on July 19. Leading opposition figures claim that the new conditions and restrictions target serious candidates, effectively excluding them from the race.

In a joint statement, opposition candidates highlighted delays in obtaining necessary documents, while NGOs and parties condemned the government's control over public media and the judiciary. A high-profile campaign manager and volunteer were arrested, intensifying concerns about an unfair electoral process.

(With inputs from agencies.)