WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Monday released the following statement on the results of the presidential election in Tunisia.

“For years, President Saied has systematically dismantled Tunisia’s democracy by gutting independent checks and balances and rigging the rules to prevent any real competition. The outcome of this election was determined a long time ago and marks the completion of his plan to restore dictatorship to Tunisia. Today’s “victory” – with a dismal 29% voter turnout - shows just how disenchanted the Tunisian people are with Saied’s rule and his unwillingness to meaningfully address the country’s spiraling economy. The United States should continue its support of the Tunisian people, civil society, and independent media in hopes for a brighter future.”

In June, Murphy chaired a hearing on President Biden’s FY25 funding request for the Middle East and North Africa, where he raised questions on U.S. policy towards Tunisia and urged support for civil society groups.

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