Tunisia’s parliament approved a controversial law on Friday, stripping the top administrative court of election-related powers.
The law, passed with 116 votes in favor and 12 against, transfers election rulings to the court of appeals.
This change comes just days before the presidential election, sparking protests from critics who call it anti-democratic.
The new law follows a decision by the administrative court in August that overturned the disqualification of three candidates.
Despite the court’s ruling, the electoral board ignored the decision, raising concerns about the election’s fairness.
Critics accuse President Kais Saied, the leading candidate, of consolidating power after dissolving parliament in 2021.
Protesters gathered outside parliament, holding signs accusing Saied of undermining Tunisia’s democratic institutions.
Some lawmakers and human rights groups have condemned the law, warning it could threaten the country’s democratic process.
Despite the outcry, the election is set to proceed with a limited list of candidates, many of whom face legal challenges.
President Saied remains the dominant figure, as opposition contenders deal with legal issues or imprisonment.
