Tunisia's Tumultuous Election: Democractic Challenge or Power Play?

Tunisian President Kais Saied awaits official election results but claims a landslide victory amid a controversial political climate marred by arrests of opponents. Many critics boycotted the election, and voter turnout was significantly low. Saied aims to continue his anti-elite agenda despite allegations of democratic backsliding.

Tunisia's President Kais Saied announced he would await official election results before declaring victory. However, exit polls from Sigma Conseil indicate a landslide win for Saied in a contested election fraught with opposition arrests.

Amidst celebrations by Saied's supporters, critics boycotted the election, branding it a farce due to a climate of political repression and low voter turnout. Official results are expected on Monday.

Despite two past free elections, Saied's recent consolidation of power raises concerns. Critics cite democratic regression as Tunisia struggles with economic difficulties and rising emigration rates.

(With inputs from agencies.)