in Tunisia, supporters of the outgoing president who won the election celebrate his victory

Kaïs Saied is declared the winner after collecting 89% of the votes in the first round of the presidential election which took place on Sunday.

Published


Reading time: 1 min

Kaïs Saied voters celebrate his victory in the Tunisian capital, October 6, 2024. (CHEDLY BEN IBRAHIM / NURPHOTO)

In Tunisia, Kaïs Saied was declared the winner of the presidential election in the first round. According to an exit poll, he received more than 89% of the vote. A massive blow for his opponents who fear new authoritarian excesses. His supporters took to the streets of Tunis to celebrate his victory.

The head of state’s car slowly goes up Avenue Bourguiba. In the guard of honor formed by the crowd, Anissa came with her family: “We like Kaïs Saied because he is very honest, he is not corrupt. I think he is really the best choice.” Kaïs Saïed especially appeals to popular circles, much more concerned about the economic situation of the country and the return of the Islamists than about the dismantling of counter-powers.

From his HQ, the outgoing president reassured them: “What happened today is the completion of the revolution. We will rid the country of corrupt people, skeptics and conspiracies.” A speech that seduced Adou, who came out with a Tunisian flag on his shoulders: “I have a small company and that encourages investment a little. We have confidence in Kaïs Saied.” More than 89% of the votes: “It’s normal”, he said. However, Kaïs Saied’s support is crumbling. The participation rate at 27.7% has never been so low for a first round of presidential voting.


source site-28