Tunisia is set to hold a presidential election on Sunday amid significant human rights concerns, including a crackdown on dissent and violations against undocumented migrants.

The incumbent, President Kais Saied, is expected to win easily due to an electoral process criticized for lack of genuine competition, with many key critics in jail.

Notably, only 11% of the electorate participated in the previous local elections, indicating discontent with Saied's leadership.

Saied, in power since 2019, has faced criticism for his consolidation of power and the suppression of opposition groups, notably the Ennahda party, whose leaders are largely imprisoned.

His administration's handling of migrants has drawn global criticism, yet the European Union continued forward with a €105 million deal with Tunisia to control irregular migration, despite allegations of rights abuses.

Recent controversial actions by Saied include altering the constitution, expanding his powers, and curbing the judiciary's influence.

Observers express concern over further democratic erosion as Saied's approach aligns with economic decline and heightened authoritarianism.