TUNIS – Clashes erupted for a second consecutive night on Saturday between police and youths in Kairouan following the death of a man after a police chase, raising fears of nationwide unrest.
The man, who was riding a motorcycle without a license, was reportedly chased, beaten, and hospitalized by authorities before fleeing and later dying from a head injury, according to his family.
Thousands have protested for weeks in southern cities like Gabes over environmental concerns, while demonstrators in Kairouan threw stones, petrol bombs, and flares, prompting police to use tear gas to disperse crowds.
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In response, Kairouan’s governor met the deceased’s family and pledged an investigation to determine the circumstances of the death and hold those responsible accountable, aiming to ease local tensions.
Tunisia’s political crisis continues as President Kais Saied, who has ruled by decree since 2021, faces growing opposition. Activists and political figures united in protests demanding the restoration of democracy and an end to one-man rule.
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Rights groups accuse Saied of suppressing freedoms, jailing opposition leaders, and curbing civil society. Recent prison sentences for prominent figures, including Abir Moussi, and arrests of activists have intensified local and international criticism.
The demonstrations reflect broader political frustration ahead of the January anniversary of the 2011 revolution, highlighting deep divisions between the government and citizens advocating for accountability and democratic reforms.