Tunisia: Possible protests nationwide as of April 18 following arrest of opposition leaders in Tunis

Event

Protests and associated clashes are possible across Tunisia following the arrest of three leaders from the opposition party Ennahda, including its president, Rached Ghannouchi, late April 17. Authorities have closed all offices of the Salvation Front, the opposition coalition to which Ennahda belongs, and deployed security forces around its headquarters in Tunis on April 18. The arrest comes after Ghannouchi declared in a speech that President Kais Saied's attempt to eradicate political Islam in Tunisia would lead to a "civil war." Activists and Ennahda supporters could hold spontaneous rallies across Tunisia in response to the arrest.

Authorities may maintain a heightened security posture over the coming hours and days. Security personnel could deploy to additional locations as demonstrations materialize. Protests may impact major thoroughfares, including access points to ports of entry and exit. Transport and business disruptions are possible near any future demonstrations. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

President Kais Saied has increased his crackdown on opposition parties and civil society after he consolidated power in July 2022 through a constitutional change that created a presidential system. Since the beginning of 2023, more than 20 opposition leaders have been arrested. Activists have staged protests in several cities to denounce Saied's authoritarian tendencies and have occasionally burned tires, blocked roads and engaged in acts of vandalism and looting. In response, Tunisian authorities have arrested hundreds of people and deployed the military to some cities on multiple occasions.

Advice

Avoid all protests that may materialize due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely rally locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport and business disruptions near demonstration sites. Follow the instructions of security officials.