IN a move that has intensified global concern over the erosion of democracy in Tunisia, the country’s parliament has voted to strip the Electoral Commission of its independence and powers, just days before the upcoming presidential elections. This development, coupled with ongoing repression against opposition politicians and independent media, has cast a shadow over the electoral process in the North African nation.
On September 27, Tunisia’s parliament approved a law that removes the Administrative Court’s authority to adjudicate electoral disputes. The decision comes a mere nine days before the presidential election, fueling fears among opposition groups that the result may be rigged to ensure President Kais Saied remains in power.
The Administrative Court, widely regarded as Tunisia’s last independent judicial body, has been effectively sidelined. This follows President Saied’s dissolution of the Supreme Judicial Council and dismissal of dozens of judges in 2022, actions that have been criticized as undermining judicial independence.
The controversial amendment to the electoral law passed with 116 votes out of 161 lawmakers. Critics argue that the current parliament, elected in 2022 with a strikingly low 11% voter turnout, lacks legitimacy after Saied dissolved the previous parliament in what opposition groups have labelled a coup.
As parliament convened to vote on the bill, protesters gathered outside, holding placards denouncing the move as an “Assassination of Democracy” and decrying a “Rigged election.” Police erected barriers to block access to the parliament building, highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding the vote.
Civil rights activists and opposition parties, including the Free Constitutional Party whose leader is currently imprisoned, have called for protests on Saturday. Political activist Chaima Issa summed up the sentiment of many critics, stating, “We are witnessing the capture of the state days before the vote. We are at the peak of absurdity and one-man rule.”
The situation has been further complicated by the Electoral Commission’s defiance of a recent Administrative Court order to reinstate disqualified presidential candidates. The commission has allowed only two candidates to run against Saied, raising questions about the fairness and competitiveness of the upcoming election.
Critics argue that Saied is using both the electoral commission and the judiciary to secure his victory by stifling competition and intimidating rivals. Several potential presidential candidates have been jailed or disqualified, including Ayachi Zammel, who was recently sentenced to prison on charges of falsifying documents and endorsements.
The international community has expressed growing concern over these developments, viewing them as part of a broader pattern of democratic backsliding in Tunisia. Once hailed as a beacon of hope following the Arab Spring, the country now faces serious questions about its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
As Tunisia approaches this critical election, the eyes of the world remain fixed on how events will unfold, and whether the country can navigate its way back towards a more inclusive and democratic path.
