Tunisia: Activist groups plan anti-government protests in Tunis May 15

Event

Activists affiliated with the Ennahda Movement and the Citizens Against the Coup Movement plan to stage demonstrations on Habib Bourguiba Avenue in central Tunis May 15. The purpose of the actions is to denounce President Kais Saied and his proposed amendments to the constitution and dissolution of the parliament.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy heightened security to the vicinity of the protests May 15. Security forces could erect roadblocks and close roads around the planned rally site to prevent demonstrators from gathering. Counterdemonstrations organized by supporters of Saied cannot be ruled out. Clashes between demonstrators and police officers, as well as between supporters of rival political groups, are possible.

Context

Ennahda, a self-defined Islamic democratic political party in Tunisia, constituted the largest bloc in the country's parliament until Saied suspended the body in late July. Ennahda has regularly organized large anti-government protests in Tunis.

Advice

Avoid the site of the planned rallies May 15; exercise caution near other potential protest sites as organizers may not announce all events in advance. Confirm public transport schedules and allow additional time to reach destinations near rally locations. Follow all police instructions. Do not attempt to photograph or otherwise record demonstrations. Immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building if violence erupts.