Tunisian Police Detains Opposition Leader at Airport Amidst Political Tensions
Tunisian police detained Olfa Hamdi, a critic of President Kais Saied and leader of the Third Republic party, at the main airport. Hamdi's detention follows similar actions against dissidents, with many viewing it as part of a broader crackdown on opposition voices amid Tunisia's increasing political polarization.
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- Tunisia
In a continuing crackdown on dissent, Tunisian authorities have detained Olfa Hamdi, leader of the Third Republic party, as she arrived at the country's main airport on Sunday. Her detention, reported by local media, marks the latest move against critics of President Kais Saied.
Hamdi, who resides abroad and is a former CEO of Tunisair, has been a vocal opponent of Saied's administration, calling for a transitional government and early elections. Her arrest is seen by opposition figures as part of a broader suppression effort as Tunisia grapples with increasing political polarization since Saied expanded his powers in 2021.
The Tunisian government has yet to comment on Hamdi's arrest, and Reuters has been unable to reach her legal team or family. Previous similar incidents include the arrest of a parliament member known for satirizing Saied, highlighting what critics call an effort to quash dissenting voices.
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