Hundreds of Tunisians gathered in central Tunis on Thursday, May 1, to mark Labour Day with a powerful protest against President Kais Saied’s administration and to demand the release of jailed opposition figures. The demonstration, organized by Tunisia’s influential UGTT trade union and families of the detainees, underscored rising frustration over the erosion of civil liberties and political repression.
The protest took place along Habib Bourguiba Avenue, a symbolic site for political expression since the 2011 revolution. Demonstrators held banners reading “Injustice is the beginning of the end” and chanted, “The revolution will come,” with some labeling President Saied a “tyrant.”
“We’re not happy with what’s happening,” said activist Souhaieb Ferchichi. “People keep advocating for their rights despite an atmosphere of fear and repression. This regime is failing.”
Since Saied’s controversial power grab in July 2021, when he dissolved parliament and began ruling by decree, human rights groups have warned of a steady decline in Tunisia’s democratic institutions. The recent arrest of prominent lawyer Ahmed Souab on terrorism-related charges has intensified public concern. Souab, part of a defense team for detained opposition members, had accused judges of acting under political pressure.
“As his family, we consider his arrest to be politically motivated,” said his brother, Mongi Souab. “Ahmed was not detained just for his words, but for his political positions.”
Last month, a mass trial saw roughly 40 political and public figures receive lengthy jail sentences for allegedly plotting against the state drawing condemnation from France, Germany, and the United Nations.
In response, President Saied dismissed foreign criticism as “blatant interference in Tunisia’s internal affairs.” A small group of his supporters held a counter-protest nearby. “The president said what he said: no to foreign interference,” said Ridha Soula, a 70-year-old retiree. “We have elections here, and the people gave their voice.”
Despite government pushback, Thursday’s demonstration reflected a growing resistance among Tunisians demanding political accountability, legal fairness, and the restoration of civil freedoms.
