Tunisia’s parliament approved a controversial law on Friday, removing the top administrative court’s power to rule on election disputes. This move comes just days ahead of the country’s presidential election, sparking protests from critics who labeled it anti-democratic.
The new law, passed with 116 votes in favor and 12 against, transfers election-related rulings to the court of appeals. The change follows a ruling by the administrative court in August, which overturned the disqualification of three presidential candidates, a decision the electoral board ignored.
President Kais Saied, the frontrunner in the upcoming election, has been accused of consolidating power since dissolving parliament in 2021. Saied’s critics view the law as part of his broader effort to undermine democratic institutions.
Protesters gathered outside the parliament, holding placards accusing Saied of undermining democracy. Some lawmakers and human rights groups have also condemned the law, arguing it threatens Tunisia’s democratic process.
Despite the criticism, the election is set to proceed with a narrowed list of candidates. President Saied remains the dominant figure, as other contenders face legal challenges or imprisonment.