Tunisian Court Allows Mondher Znaidi Candidacy

The Tunisian Administrative Court has reinstated former minister Mondher Znaidi to the October 6 presidential election after overturning the Independent Higher Election Authority's (ISIE) decision that barred him due to insufficient signatures. Znaidi's return adds competitive pressure on incumbent President Kais Saied, who is seeking a second term amidst criticism and legal challenges against many of his political opponents. This week, the court also reinstated Abdellatif Mekki, presenting a more competitive landscape as Znaidi aims to unify voters discontented with Saied's rule. Observers view Znaidi as a significant contender capable of attracting support from mainstream opposition parties like Ennahdha, which Saied sidelined after his power consolidation in 2021. The ISIE's final list of candidates is expected to be announced next week, amidst ongoing concerns over political repression and the integrity of the electoral process. Saied, having dissolved parliament and assumed extensive powers, remains a polarizing figure as he faces growing dissent and calls for democratic accountability.