Tunisia Protesters Demand Saied Resignation in Tunis

Thousands of protesters gathered on Habib Bourguiba Avenue in Tunis on Saturday, calling for President Kais Saied to resign. The demonstration coincided with the fifth anniversary of Saied’s assumption of emergency powers, a step that has reshaped Tunisia’s political system.

The rally was organized by the opposition coalition Nafas. Participants linked their demand for Saied’s departure to what they described as worsening economic management and the weakening of democratic institutions under the current administration.

Protest marks anniversary of emergency powers

According to critics, Tunisia’s political direction shifted after Saied moved to rule with expanded authority. Since July 2026, Saied has governed by decree following the suspension and later dissolution of parliament, opponents said.

Those opposing the president argue that the concentration of power has accelerated what they describe as democratic backsliding. They cite actions including the dismissal of judges, constraints on independent media described as criminalization, and the imprisonment of prominent political figures.

Opposition points to arrests and institutional rollback

Among the figures referenced by critics is former parliament speaker Rached Ghannouchi, who has been incarcerated, according to the protest organizers’ account. Demonstrators framed such cases as part of a broader campaign against political rivals and dissent.

The administration has defended its approach, saying the measures are required to fight corruption and preserve national stability. Officials have presented the steps as necessary safeguards rather than a break with constitutional politics.

Broader coalition joins calls for return to post-2011 process

Organizers said the protest reflected widening opposition beyond established parties. They reported that people from varied civil and political backgrounds joined traditional opposition groups to demand a return to democratic procedures put in place after the 2011 revolution.

Demonstrators presented their demands as a call for a political transition and the restoration of representative governance. The opposition’s message, as articulated at the rally, focused on rebuilding institutional checks and renewing the post-2011 democratic pathway.

Government response remains unclear

The government had not responded publicly to the latest calls for a transition of power, according to the information provided. At the same time, the opposition continues to face legal pressure, including legal challenges and ongoing arrests targeting its leadership.

As protesters dispersed from central Tunis, the immediate timeline for any political change remained uncertain. The opposition’s ability to sustain momentum may depend on whether authorities engage with the demands or maintain the current legal and security posture toward opposition activity.