Tunisian lawmakers’ proposal to shift election oversight from the administrative court to the appeals court ignited protests in the capital on Sunday, as citizens voiced concerns over potential judicial interference ahead of the upcoming presidential election. With just weeks remaining before the October 6 vote, the proposal, introduced by 34 deputies, has sparked backlash from human rights groups, right-wing parties, and liberal organizations alike.
The demonstrations took place along the iconic Habib Bourguiba Avenue in Tunis, where protesters chanted slogans such as “No to dictatorship, no to oppression,” and called for transparent and fair elections. Protesters expressed fears that the proposed change could undermine Tunisia’s democratic processes by transferring electoral oversight to a body they perceive as less impartial.
The High Electoral Commission of Tunisia, responsible for managing the electoral process, recently confirmed the candidacies of three individuals, including sitting President Kais Saied. However, several rejected candidates appealed their disqualifications to the administrative court, which ruled in their favor. Despite these rulings, the electoral commission has maintained the initial list of approved candidates, intensifying concerns about the independence of the election process.
Protesters have criticized the proposed transfer of oversight authority as an attempt to weaken the role of the administrative court, a key institution in ensuring electoral integrity. Many believe that such a move could lead to political manipulation and diminish public confidence in the democratic process. As the October 6 election approaches, tensions over the proposed changes are expected to grow, with political and civil groups remaining vocal in their demands for electoral transparency.
The protests reflect broader concerns within Tunisia’s political landscape as the country continues to navigate its transition to democracy following the 2011 revolution. Tunisia has long been viewed as a beacon of hope for democratic progress in the Arab world, but recent moves by lawmakers and government officials have triggered fears of backsliding into authoritarianism.–News Desk