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Tunisian President Saied Faces Backlash for Democratic Reversal

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Activists criticize Kais Saied, the Tunisian president, for reversing democratic gains fifteen years after the Arab Spring began.
Since his power grab in July 2021, Saied has pursued measures like rewriting the constitution and suppressing dissent.
Political prisoners include former Ennahdha leader Rached Ghannouchi, who faces harsh sentences.
Decree 54 stifles civil society by criminalizing dissenting communication.

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Story summary

Activists criticize Kais Saied, the Tunisian president, for reversing democratic gains fifteen years after the Arab Spring began.
Since his power grab in July 2021, Saied has pursued measures like rewriting the constitution and suppressing dissent.
Political prisoners include former Ennahdha leader Rached Ghannouchi, who faces harsh sentences.
Decree 54 stifles civil society by criminalizing dissenting communication.