Tunisia: Political groups call for nationwide protest march Oct. 15

Event

Political groups, including the National Salvation Front (NSFT) and the Ennahda Movement, have called for a nationwide protest march in Tunisia Oct. 15. The protest march has been organized to denounce President Kais Saied's policies and continued rule by decree. Ennahda, a self-defined Islamic democratic political party, constituted the largest bloc in the country's Parliament until Saied dissolved it in late July 2021. The protests will almost certainly be well attended.

Organizers have announced that the event in Tunis will begin at 11:00 in Place De La Monnaie and protesters will then march through Al-Habib Thamer Park, Independence Square, and Habib Bourguiba Avenue before stopping for a rally near Municipal Theatre.

Heightened security measures and disruptions to transport and business are likely in areas subject to high levels of protest activity. Clashes may accompany related demonstrations and are particularly likely between supporters of rival political groups and if police attempt to forcibly disperse crowds. Popular protest sites in Tunisia include public squares, city centers, and government buildings, among other prominent locations. Security forces will likely erect roadblocks and may close roads around planned protest sites to prevent demonstrators from gathering.

Context

Saied, elected in 2019, dissolved Tunisia's Parliament, suspended the country's constitution, and removed the prime minister July 25, 2021. He has ruled by decree since then. Saied remains somewhat popular, having pledged to bring reforms and rid the country of alleged institutional corruption. However, the country's socioeconomic conditions have worsened during his tenure, especially since the emergence of COVID-19. Therefore, although the Tunisian public has generally been supportive of Saied's policies to date, it is unlikely that Saied can maintain his current level of support as the country's economic situation continues to deteriorate.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely protest venues. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce events in advance. Confirm the availability of transport on protest days, as rail and traffic disruptions are possible, and allow additional time to reach destinations. 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.