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Tunisia's Democracy Fades Under Saied's Rule

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. unisia-s-democracy-fades-under-saied-s-rule.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 2:12 GMT by Reuters
      Locales: Somalia, KENYA

Tunis, Tunisia - February 10th, 2026 - Four years after unexpectedly sweeping into the presidency, Kais Saied continues to reshape Tunisia, a nation still grappling with the legacy of its 2011 revolution. What began as the hopeful 'Arab Spring' tale of democratic transition has taken a decidedly authoritarian turn under Saied's leadership, raising serious concerns among international observers and a growing segment of the Tunisian populace.

In 2021, Saied, a then-relatively unknown law professor, capitalized on widespread public frustration with a stagnant economy, endemic corruption, and a deeply unpopular political class. He presented himself as an anti-establishment figure, a "clean" alternative to the perceived failures of the post-revolution governments. His campaign, powered by social media and grassroots mobilization, resonated with Tunisians disillusioned by broken promises and a lack of tangible improvements in their daily lives. Initial analysis dismissed him as a protest vote candidate, unlikely to succeed against established figures.

However, Saied's message tapped into a potent vein of public anger. The years following the 2011 revolution - while avoiding the widespread violence that engulfed other nations - had brought limited economic progress. Unemployment, particularly among youth, remained stubbornly high. Corruption continued to plague public institutions, and successive governments failed to address the root causes of these problems. Saied skillfully exploited these grievances, positioning himself as a champion of the 'real' people against a self-serving elite.

His initial rise was characterized by a deliberate ambiguity regarding his specific policy proposals. He focused instead on a broad critique of the existing system and a promise to 'restore the state.' This strategy, while criticized by some as lacking substance, proved remarkably effective in attracting voters desperate for change.

But the 'change' Saied delivered has been far from the democratic ideals many Tunisians had hoped for. In July 2021, just months into his presidency, he invoked emergency powers, suspended parliament, and dismissed the prime minister. Initially framed as a temporary measure to address a political and economic crisis, these powers have been steadily consolidated, effectively dismantling Tunisia's nascent democratic institutions.

In 2022, Saied implemented a new constitution through a widely boycotted referendum, granting himself sweeping executive powers and diminishing the role of parliament. Critics argue this new constitution concentrates power in the presidency, eroding checks and balances and paving the way for authoritarian rule. Civil liberties have been curtailed, with increasing restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. Journalists and activists critical of the government have faced harassment, intimidation, and arrest.

The economic situation remains precarious. While Saied has implemented some reforms aimed at tackling corruption and streamlining bureaucracy, these have been insufficient to address the underlying economic challenges. Tunisia is heavily indebted and reliant on international loans. The cost of living continues to rise, exacerbating social tensions. The tourism sector, a vital source of revenue, has suffered due to the political instability and the global pandemic.

Today, Tunisia stands at a crossroads. While some Tunisians support Saied, viewing him as a strong leader capable of restoring order and tackling corruption, a growing number fear that the nation is sliding towards authoritarianism. Opposition parties are fragmented and weakened, struggling to mount a credible challenge to Saied's rule. The international community has expressed concern over the erosion of democratic norms, but its influence appears limited. The promise of the 2011 revolution - a beacon of hope for democratic change in the Arab world - hangs in the balance. Whether Tunisia can reclaim its path towards a truly democratic future remains to be seen. The nation's unfinished revolution continues to unfold, but the direction it takes under Kais Saied is increasingly concerning to those who remember the initial aspirations for freedom and self-determination.