Status: 17.12.2022 09:45 a.m
Tunisia was once at the forefront of the Arab Spring. But the young democracy is in bad shape. The parliament that people elect today will have significantly less power than in the past. The opposition called for a boycott.
Around nine million voters in Tunisia are called upon to elect a new parliament. However, the future representative body will have hardly any powers. The opposition called for the election to be boycotted. She described the election as part of a “coup” against democracy that emerged from the Arab Spring in 2011.
The powerful trade union federation in the country, which played a decisive role in the overthrow of ex-dictator Ben Ali, has also criticized the election.
President Saied is heavily criticized
The focus of criticism is on President Kais Saied and his new electoral law, which, among other things, has de facto weakened the power of parties. Opponents criticize that Saied’s new constitution means that the president can rule almost without supervision.
In the summer, the president was able to push through the new constitution in a controversial referendum, which has given him significantly more power. For example, the head of state can appoint and dismiss the government and judges without the consent of parliament. The ex-law professor also changed the right to vote. Many now fear a return to authoritarian structures.
Earlier, in March, Saied had dissolved the People’s Assembly. After protests, he de facto deposed the government and parliament a year and a half ago – and has ruled by decree ever since.
Tunisia’s President Saied has ruled by decree for months.
Image: Getty Images via AFP
Historic election date in Tunisia
The December 17 election date is historic. Twelve years ago, greengrocer Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire out of despair over his financial situation. His act led to mass protests in the country, which eventually sparked the revolution.
More than a decade after the revolution, many people in Tunisia are frustrated. Despite democratic reforms, the economic situation has not improved for many. Many young people want to emigrate.
In the election for the allocation of the 161 seats in parliament mostly unknown candidates stand. A low turnout is expected.