Protests Erupt in Gabes Amid Environmental Concerns and Political Tensions in Tunisia

On the 15th anniversary of the 2011 pro-democracy uprising, protests erupted in Gabes, Tunisia, as residents voiced their frustrations over pollution from a state-run chemical plant. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as "Gabes wants to live" and "People want to dismantle polluting units," highlighting their demand for the permanent closure and relocation of the facility. The protests have intensified pressure on President Kais Saied's government, which is already grappling with a severe financial crisis and widespread public discontent.

Local environmental activist Safouan Kbibieh emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We refuse to pass on an environmental disaster to our children.” Residents have reported increased rates of respiratory illnesses, osteoporosis, and cancer, which they attribute to toxic emissions from the phosphate complex. The protests were reignited after hundreds of schoolchildren experienced breathing difficulties, allegedly due to toxic fumes from the plant that converts phosphates into phosphoric acid and fertilizers.

President Kais Saied, who has ruled by decree since 2021, described the situation in Gabes as an “environmental assassination” and blamed previous governments for the ongoing issues. He has called for urgent maintenance to prevent further toxic leaks. However, protesters have rejected temporary measures, insisting on more permanent solutions.

The protests in Gabes are part of a broader wave of unrest across Tunisia, where various sectors, including doctors and journalists, have also staged demonstrations. The powerful UGTT union has announced a nationwide strike for next month, signaling escalating tensions within the country.

In response to the growing protests, supporters of President Saied held a rally in Tunis, branding opposition figures as "traitors." These supporters argue that Saied is confronting corruption and stabilizing the country amidst a deepening economic crisis characterized by high inflation and shortages of basic goods. Protesters at this rally chanted slogans like "people want Saied again," reflecting a divided public sentiment regarding the president's leadership.

The Straits Times

Critics, however, have raised concerns about Saied's authoritarian tendencies, citing a crackdown on opposition figures and civil society. Recent judicial actions, including the sentencing of prominent opposition leader Abir Moussi to 12 years in prison, have intensified fears of a retreat from democratic governance.

The Straits Times

The UGTT union's call for a nationwide strike next month underscores the mounting pressure on Saied's administration. Rights groups have accused Saied of using the judiciary and police to suppress dissent, while Saied himself has dismissed these claims, asserting he is cleansing the country of corruption.

The Straits Times

While the protests in Gabes have been characterized as a significant challenge to Saied's rule, the extent of public support for the president remains unclear. Reports indicate a split in public opinion, with some rallying behind Saied's leadership while others vehemently oppose his methods.

The Straits Times

• “We refuse to pass on an environmental disaster to our children, and we are determined to stick to our demand,” said Safouan Kbibieh, a local environmental activist.” — Safouan Kbibieh, Local Environmental Activist

• “We are here to rescue Tunisia from traitors and colonial lackeys,” — Saleh Ghiloufi, Protester

The Straits Times

The situation in Gabes and the broader political landscape in Tunisia continue to evolve, with significant implications for the country's future governance and environmental policies.