Tunisia’s leader tightens his grip but popularity at risk as economy reels

President Kais Saied’s authoritarian shift has not alienated the Tunisian public but he may struggle to maintain support with a worsening economic crisis, writes Simon Speakman Cordall

Supporters of Tunisian president Kais Saied rally in support of his seizure of power and suspension of parliament in Tunis, 3 October 2021 (EPA-EFE)

First came the power grab in July, when Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked the prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority.

Then followed last week’s sentencing, in absentia, of former leader Moncef Marzouki to four years in prison after he criticised Mr Saied.

For many observers, recent events have confirmed the president’s recent authoritarian shift and raised questions about whether his tightening grip on power risks losing the widespread support he enjoys among the public as the Tunisian economy suffers.