A Tunisian court has sentenced presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel to six months in prison on September 25 for falsifying documents, his second prison sentence in a week.
This verdict comes just days before the presidential election, heightening tensions amid opposition and civil society groups’ concerns of a rigged election favoring President Kais Saied.
Zammel was previously sentenced to 20 months in prison for falsifying popular endorsements. His attorney, Abdessattar Massoudi, condemned the latest ruling, stating, “It is another unjust ruling and a farce that clearly aims to weaken him in the election race, but we will defend his right to the last minute.”
Zammel is one of only three approved candidates, alongside incumbent Saied and Zouhair Magzhaoui. Political tensions escalated after the electoral commission, appointed by Saied, disqualified three prominent candidates earlier this month, sparking protests from opposition and civil society groups.
The October 6 election has become increasingly contentious. Opposition and civil society groups fear Saied’s actions aim to maintain his power. Zammel’s sentences have fueled concerns about the election’s legitimacy. As the election approaches, tensions are expected to rise further.
Zammel’s legal team vows to continue defending his candidacy amidst these challenges. The outcome of the election remains uncertain, with many watching to see how events unfold in Tunisia.
