Tunisia Holds First Local Elections Under New Constitution Amid Economic Crisis

Lack of enthusiasm and political boycotts overshadow the vote aimed at reshaping Tunisian politics.

Tunisia is holding its first local elections since President Kais Saied wrote a new constitution that voters approved last year.
The elections will determine the composition of a new National Council of Regions and Districts, a part of Saied's vision to reshape Tunisian politics.
The new legislative chamber is designed to focus on economic development, with candidates campaigning on building schools, roads, and other infrastructure.
Despite the transformation promised, there's little enthusiasm about the elections and their ability to improve Tunisia's situation, which is plagued by high unemployment, drought, and shortages of basic necessities.
Several political parties, including Ennahda, are boycotting the elections, citing a political and social climate not conducive to holding a democratic local election.