Tunisia’s highest court ruled on Saturday that the electoral commission must reinstate two candidates in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October.
The court warned that not doing so could undermine the election’s legitimacy. This decision from the Administrative Court comes as political tensions rise in Tunisia, with opposition parties and civil society groups fearing that the election might be rigged in favor of President Kais Saied, who is seeking a second term.
On Friday, thousands of Tunisians took part in the largest protest in two years, demonstrating against restrictions on freedoms and the country’s current political environment. Protesters called for the removal of President Saied, chanting “Out with dictator Saied.”
Tensions escalated when the electoral commission refused to comply with an earlier court ruling to reinstate the candidacies of Abdellatif Mekki, Mondher Znaidi, and Imed Daimi for the October 6 election, citing irregularities in their application submissions. Opposition parties and civil society groups accused the commission, whose members were appointed by Saied, of being a tool of the president to suppress his opponents.
Farouk Bouasker, head of the electoral commission, denied these allegations, asserting that the commission is the sole constitutional body responsible for ensuring the integrity of the election. However, the court stated that the commission must follow its ruling and, if necessary, adjust the electoral timeline. It remains unclear whether this means postponing the election or extending the campaign period.
The court added that failing to comply would result in a violation of the electoral law and transparency standards. Znaidi and Mekki have filed fresh complaints to re-enter the race, while Daimi has yet to submit a second appeal.
President Saied, elected in 2019, consolidated his power by ruling through decrees starting in 2021, a move the opposition has labeled a coup.
