Geneva, Switzerland, [26 July 2024] – As Tunisia gears up for its presidential elections scheduled for October 6, 2024, with President Kais Saied seeking a second term, the Committee for Justice (CFJ) is pleased to announce the second edition of its election observation initiative. This initiative aims to monitor the integrity of the Tunisian electoral process amid growing concerns over fairness and democratic principles. It is part of the broader “Right to Free Elections” project, initially launched during the 2023 Egyptian presidential elections.
Since July 2021, Tunisia’s political climate has been marked by concerns regarding President Kais Saied’s centralization of power, following his assumption of extraordinary powers and the dissolution of key democratic institutions. Saied’s administration has also introduced stringent electoral laws, raising fears of compromised fair competition and reduced political diversity. Both local and international entities have expressed concerns, particularly following the adoption of Decree-Law 22, which strengthens executive control over the Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE), casting doubts on its independence and impartiality. Additionally, Tunisia’s main opposition coalition has announced a boycott of the elections, citing concerns over fair competition and the imprisonment of political opponents.
In light of these challenges, there is an increased need for independent election monitoring to document any potential irregularities or violations during the electoral process. Fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, the right to vote, and the right to stand as a candidate, are particularly at risk of being abused during elections. It is crucial to ensure that citizens can exercise their rights freely, without fear of obstruction, punishment, or retaliation.
CFJ’s election monitoring initiative will play a critical role in overseeing Tunisia’s compliance with international democratic standards. In alignment with CFJ’s mission to advocate for transparency and improve the human rights situation in Tunisia and the broader region, this initiative will provide timely updates and publish three comprehensive reports throughout the electoral process. These reports will cover different phases of the election, offering detailed and verified information on any violations of voters’ or candidates’ fundamental rights and freedoms, promoting transparency, and safeguarding the right to information, essential for free, fair, and democratic elections.
- Pre-Election Report: This report will focus on the pre-election period, monitoring the compliance of Tunisian authorities with electoral legislation, assessing the functioning of institutions responsible for the electoral process, observing the registration of candidates and voters, and documenting any violations related to freedom of expression, assembly, and support for candidates. Abuses often occur when opposition candidates or activists mobilize or campaign against the ruling regime.
- Election Day Report: This report will focus on the Election Day period, closely monitoring voting centers, the conduct of individuals at ballot boxes, documenting any violations during vote counting and results announcements, and identifying patterns of systematic violations.
- Post-Election Report: This comprehensive report will cover complaint and appeal processes, instances of retaliation or harassment resulting from electoral participation, and other related issues.
The initiative will adhere to international standards, including those set by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN General Assembly Resolution 46/137, ensuring that the election process meets global democratic standards.
About Right to Free Election: Right to Free Election is a project launched by the Committee for Justice during the 2023 Egyptian Presidential Election. The project specializes in monitoring and promoting the integrity of electoral processes across the Middle East and North Africa region, aiming to enhance electoral transparency and promote free, fair, and competitive elections. Information sources for monitoring and documentation include victims and their families, eyewitnesses, official documents and statements, press sources, activists and human rights defenders, social media, photos, and videos. The verification process involves collecting information on monitored violations daily from multiple sources and analyzing it for statistical patterns. Documented violations require direct communication with victims or credible witnesses, supported by evidence such as images, videos, and medical reports.
For more information about our election monitoring initiative in Tunisia and our other activities, please visit: https://www.cfjustice.org/right-to-free-elections/.
Media Inquiries: media@cfjustice.org.
