Thousands protest in Tunis demanding President Kais Saied's resignation

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tunis on Saturday, converging on the city’s central square to call for the resignation of President Kais Saied. Organizers estimated the crowd at roughly 10,000 participants, while police figures placed the number slightly lower. The protest was marked by chants demanding Saied step down and the restoration of parliamentary authority.

The march reflects growing public frustration over Saied’s consolidation of power since his 2021 suspension of parliament and subsequent constitutional reforms, which critics say have weakened democratic checks and increased economic hardship. Protesters cited rising unemployment, inflation, and shortages of basic goods as evidence of a deteriorating situation under the president’s rule. Security forces maintained a visible presence but reported no arrests or clashes, and the demonstration proceeded without major incident. Opposition leaders, barred from formal political activity, have used the gathering to amplify calls for a return to a civilian‑led government.

Authorities have not responded publicly to the demands, and Saied’s office has reiterated its commitment to national stability. The protest adds pressure on the president ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, underscoring a volatile political climate that could influence Tunisia’s trajectory in the months ahead.