Thousands of Tunisians marched through the streets of Tunis on Saturday, demanding the resignation of President Kais Saied as the country marked five years since he suspended parliament and dramatically reshaped Tunisia’s political system. Protesters carried banners reading “Get Out,” “Game Over,” and “Only Kaïs Remains Happy,” while chanting slogans against the president. Demonstrators accused Saied’s administration of worsening economic hardship, weakening democratic institutions, and failing to address the country’s deepening social and political crises. The rally coincided with the anniversary of July 25, 2021, when Saied suspended parliament, dismissed the prime minister, and later dissolved the legislature before ruling by decree. Supporters described the move as necessary to end political paralysis and corruption, while critics condemned it as a blow to Tunisia’s democratic transition following the 2011 Arab Spring.
Academic and sociologist Mouldi Gassoumi said the protest was intended to restore the principles of the republic that he believes have been eroded over the past five years. “These values began to disappear on July 25, 2021, in what I have repeatedly described as a coup against the constitutional order,” Gassoumi said. Demonstrators also denounced restrictions on civil liberties, the imprisonment of opposition figures, journalists and activists, and growing concerns over press freedom. Among those highlighted during the march was jailed journalist Mourad Zghidi, whose portrait was carried by protesters. His sister urged Tunisians to continue resisting what she described as increasing repression.
“People are being oppressed and imprisoned. Those who could contribute to this country are behind bars, and Tunisia faces serious dangers,” she said. The protests come as Tunisia grapples with rising inflation, high unemployment, and shortages of essential goods, while negotiations with international lenders over economic reforms remain challenging. Public frustration has also intensified following a severe heatwave that has triggered wildfires, electricity outages, and water supply disruptions across parts of the country, adding further pressure to already strained public services. Saturday’s demonstration is the latest in a series of anti-government protests, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with Tunisia’s political direction and worsening living conditions.
