Thousands rally for biggest protest in years against Tunisia’s Saied

Unions and opposition groups unite to demonstrate against worsening living conditions and restrictions on political freedoms.Published On 17 Oct 202617 Oct 2026Thousands of Tunisians have marched through the capital to protest against President Kais Saied, worsening living conditions and restrictions on political freedoms.The latest demonstration in Tunis on Saturday was led by the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), an influential trade union federation, alongside opposition parties and civil society organisations.Recommended Stories list of 2 itemslist 1 of 2Tunisia: What has Kais Saied achieved economically in seven years?list 2 of 2Tunisia softens its ‘false news’ penalty. What really changed, and why now?end of listIt was the largest protest against Saied in years, bringing together political opponents whose longstanding divisions have weakened their ability to challenge his rule.The AFP news agency reported that more than 3,000 people were on the march, but the total could not be independently confirmed.Protesters gathered along Habib Bourguiba Avenue, a major street in central Tunis, as hundreds of police deployed across the capital. Several surrounding roads were closed.T...