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Tunisian protesters call for President Kais Saied to step down

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-21

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Hundreds of protesters in Tunis called for President Kais Saied to resign, citing power cuts and rising living costs as key grievances. • Why it matters: The protests, organized by the new opposition group Nafas Movement, highlight widespread discontent with the government's handling of economic issues and signal a growing wave of dissent in Tunisia. • What to watch next: Observers should monitor the government's response to the protests and whether further demonstrations will occur, as the situation could significantly impact Tunisia's political landscape.

**Title: Tunisian Protesters Demand President Kais Saied's Resignation Amid Economic Struggles**

**Tunis, Tunisia** – On Thursday, hundreds of demonstrators gathered in the streets of Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, to voice their discontent with President Kais Saied and demand his resignation. The protest, organized by the newly formed opposition group, Nafas Movement, was fueled by widespread frustration over ongoing power outages and the escalating cost of living that many citizens are currently facing.

The protesters expressed their grievances through chants and banners, highlighting the economic hardships that have affected daily life in Tunisia. Power cuts, which have become increasingly frequent, have sparked anger among citizens who rely on electricity for both their homes and businesses. Additionally, the rising cost of essential goods has put significant pressure on families, leading to a growing sense of urgency for change.

The Nafas Movement, which has emerged as a significant player in the opposition landscape, has called for a united front against the current administration. The group aims to address the economic issues plaguing the country and restore faith in Tunisia's democratic processes, which many feel have been undermined in recent years.

As the protests unfolded, the atmosphere in Tunis was charged with a mix of determination and frustration. Demonstrators carried placards demanding accountability and a shift in leadership, reflecting the broader discontent that has simmered since Saied assumed power. The president, who has faced criticism for his handling of the economy and governance, has yet to respond publicly to the protests.

The march is indicative of a growing wave of dissent in Tunisia, where citizens are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with the government's performance. As the country grapples with economic challenges, including high unemployment rates and inflation, the calls for Saied to step down may signal a pivotal moment in Tunisian politics.

The protest on Thursday is part of a broader trend of activism in Tunisia, where citizens have historically taken to the streets to advocate for their rights and demand political change. The legacy of the 2011 revolution, which led to the ousting of long-time dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, continues to inspire a generation that seeks to hold their leaders accountable.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing unrest and whether further protests will follow. The demands for Saied's resignation reflect a critical juncture in Tunisia's political landscape, as citizens navigate the complexities of governance and economic stability in a post-revolutionary context.

Source: Al Jazeera
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