Tunisian Judge Bars Presidential Candidate from Media and Travel

A Tunisian judge has barred Abd Ellatif Mekki, a potential presidential candidate, from media appearances and traveling, in a move his party claims is aimed at hindering his campaign ahead of the October 6 elections.

Opposition parties accuse President Kais Saied's government of using judicial pressure to eliminate rivals, with several candidates, including Abir Moussi, Ghazi Chaouachi, and Lotfi Mraihi, facing legal action for various alleged crimes. Mekki's lawyer, Monia Bouali, confirmed the restrictions and suggested the charges were politically motivated.

Saied, who dissolved parliament in 2021, has not yet announced his candidacy but is expected to seek a second term. His supporters deny the allegations, asserting that prosecutions are based on legitimate charges like corruption.