Tunisians Protest Against Erosion of Freedoms and Rights

Thousands of Tunisians took to the streets on Friday to protest against the erosion of freedoms and rights, demanding the release of jailed politicians and journalists and an end to intimidation against presidential election candidates.

The protest, described by Reuters as one of the largest against President Qais Said in the past year, saw demonstrators call for the return of democracy and an end to abuses by authorities.

Protesters Demand Release of Jailed Opposition Figures

The Tunisian Network for Rights and Freedoms, a coalition of leftist and social groups, civil society organizations, and human rights activists, organized the protest.

Protesters chanted slogans such as “Qais Said is a dictator,” “The freedom of the police state is over,” and “Leave, go,” as they marched through the streets.

President Qais Said’s Consolidation of Power

President Qais Said has been ruling by decree since 2021, a move the opposition has described as a coup. The president has monopolized the country’s authorities and is seeking to win a second term in the upcoming elections.

The Election Commission has excluded three candidates from the race, despite the administrative court approving the validity of their candidacy files. The elections are scheduled to take place on October 6.