Publications

Tunisia’s October 24 presidential and parliamentary elections brought few surprises. As expected, President Zayn al- ‘Abidin Ben’ Ali, who has ruled since 1987, was reelected by an absolute majority of 94.48%. His ruling RCD (Rassemblement constitutionel dֳmocratique) party maintained control over the country’s parliament. Accordingly, Tunisia’s government-recognized opposition parties will remain marginal and largely ineffective. The Tunisian government championed the elections as an important stepping stone towards political pluralism. In addition to the incumbent, voters were able to choose between two other competing presidential candidates. Seven parties participated in the parliamentary race. But despite these trappings, the entire campaign process and election results are a far cry from a pluralistic democratic framework.