Tunisian opposition demands release of political prisoners before taking part in presidential elections

Tunisia’s leading opposition coalition declared on Tuesday that it would boycott the forthcoming presidential election unless political adversaries of President Kais Saied are released and judicial independence is reinstated, according to Reuters.

Since Saied took control in 2021 by suspending parliament and rewriting the constitution, more than 20 political opponents have been detained or charged. In a referendum later that year, weary voters approved Saied’s constitutional changes, albeit with low turnout.

While Saied is anticipated to seek re-election in the presidential race, likely slated for September or October, it remains uncertain if any contenders will challenge him.