Tunisia politics: North African state set to hold first ever local elections

World
Europe

02:27

And in north Africa, Tunisia is set to hold local elections for the first time in its history. Some Tunisians are expressing dissatisfaction about the political and economic situation. Others are more optimistic. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi has more.

A recent study on the expectations of Tunisians from the country's 1st local elections has shown alarming figures on voting intentions. At least 60 percent of registered voters declared that they will boycott the elections on Sunday.

MOHAMED LAABIDI REGISTERED VOTER "We voted in the 2011 and 2014 legislative elections but nothing has changed. Tunisians are fed up with empty promises. We don't trust politicians. Boycotting the elections sends a strong message."

Many people in the North African state believe that boycotting the municipal elections because of the country's political failure, is likely to compromise the democratic process.

KHALED BOUCHAREB REGISTERED VOTER "Voting in municipal elections is a constitutional right. This is an opportunity for citizens to play a crucial role in the decision-making process and to improve their region. I will vote on Sunday for democracy in Tunisia."

The Authorities have tightened up security ahead of the Sunday election.

IMED BEL HADJ KHALIFA SECRETARY GENERAL, UNION OF INTERIOR SECURITY FORCES "The security situation is stable. Security forces and army units are everywhere. We are ready for the Municipal elections. The Authorities have provided all logistical and human needs for successful elections."

A few days ago, the Tunisian parliament adopted the Local Government Code which is viewed by MPs as a turning point for the establishment of the attributes of local governance as provided for in the constitution and a step towards the implementation of decentralization in the North African country.

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS, TUNISIA "According to the Interior and Defense ministries, over 60,000 policemen and soldiers have been deployed in 24 regions across the country to provide security and to prevent sleeper terrorist cells from targeting polling stations. The Higher Independent Authority for Elections hopes to guarantee a smooth and safe election process. AC, CGTN, Tunisia."