Tunisia Union Confrontation: UGTT Faces President Saied Amidst Power Struggle
- THE MAG POST
- Aug 22, 2025
- 8 min read
The confrontation between Tunisia's General Labour Union (UGTT) and President Kais Saied is escalating, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's political landscape. As Saied consolidates power, the UGTT, with its deep historical roots and substantial membership, stands as one of the few remaining institutions capable of challenging his authority. The union's planned protest on August 21st signifies a direct response to perceived government overreach, including attempts to undermine workers' rights and suppress strikes, following a disruptive three-day transport strike in late July. This clash is not merely about labor rights; it represents a broader struggle for the soul of Tunisia's post-revolutionary democracy, with the UGTT's ability to mobilize its members serving as a crucial counterweight to the president's expanding powers.
Analysts suggest that while the UGTT remains a powerful entity, internal divisions, stemming from a controversial leadership mandate extension in 2021, have somewhat diminished its cohesive strength. Compounding these internal pressures is the severe economic downturn gripping the country, which is disproportionately affecting the union's core membership—the state-dependent middle class. This economic hardship fuels public discontent and makes the union vulnerable to accusations of corruption and ineffectiveness, narratives actively promoted by President Saied. Furthermore, the government's apparent strategy of supporting rival unions, such as the Union of Tunisian Workers (UTT), and implementing measures to curtail the UGTT's operational capacity, indicates a concerted effort to weaken a key opposition force, making the UGTT the logical next target in Saied's quest for unmediated popular support.
Tunisia's Union Faces President Saied: A Shifting Power Dynamic
Tunisia's powerful General Labour Union (UGTT) finds itself at a critical juncture, preparing to confront President Kais Saied amidst a backdrop of escalating political tensions. The union has officially called for a protest on August 21st, citing the government's alleged efforts to dismantle workers' rights and employ intimidation tactics to suppress legitimate strikes. This planned demonstration follows a disruptive three-day transport strike by the UGTT in late July, which significantly impacted the nation's operations.
The UGTT: A Legacy of Influence in Tunisia
The Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT) boasts a rich history, predating Tunisia's independence from French colonial rule in 1956. Established as a formidable force, it played a pivotal role not only in the nation's liberation but also in shaping its post-revolutionary trajectory. Its influence extended beyond labor rights, encompassing a significant economic and political role. A notable example of its sway was its crucial involvement in navigating a severe political crisis in 2015, where the UGTT, alongside three other prominent civil society organizations, acted as the primary catalyst in preventing the collapse of Tunisia's nascent democracy.
Historical Context of UGTT's Political Engagement
The UGTT's historical entanglement in Tunisia's political landscape is undeniable. Its deep roots in the nation's struggle for self-determination underscore its enduring significance. Beyond its role in achieving independence, the union has consistently served as a crucial mediator and stabilizing force during periods of national upheaval. The 2015 National Dialogue, a testament to its political acumen, highlighted the UGTT's capacity to bridge divides and foster consensus during a critical period of democratic transition, showcasing its importance as a pillar of Tunisian civil society.
The UGTT's Role in National Dialogue and Stability
In 2015, Tunisia faced a profound political crisis that threatened to unravel its democratic experiment. It was during this tumultuous period that the UGTT, in collaboration with three other major civil society organizations, stepped forward as the principal force in establishing a National Dialogue. This initiative was instrumental in preventing the complete collapse of the country's post-revolutionary democratic framework. The union's willingness to engage in complex political negotiations and its ability to mobilize support demonstrated its deep commitment to national stability and democratic preservation.
President Saied's Power Consolidation and Union Response
Since assuming power on July 25, 2021, President Kais Saied has systematically consolidated his authority, significantly diminishing the influence of parliament and political parties. He has effectively rewritten the nation's constitution to grant himself expansive powers. Amidst this concentration of presidential authority, the UGTT's considerable membership base and its proven ability to mobilize hundreds of thousands of supporters represent one of the few remaining significant counterbalances to Saied's increasing dominance, making the inevitable confrontation all the more significant.
Saied's Constitutional Overhaul and Union Autonomy
President Saied's ascendancy has been marked by a series of decisive actions aimed at reshaping Tunisia's political architecture. His constitutional revisions, enacted without broad consultation, have centralized power and curtailed the influence of traditional political institutions. This strategic move has directly impacted the autonomy and operational capacity of various civil society organizations, including labor unions. The president's actions have been interpreted by many as an attempt to sideline any potential opposition and establish a more centralized, top-down governance model, directly challenging the established order.
The UGTT's Stand Against Perceived Government Overreach
The UGTT's planned protest is a direct response to what it perceives as President Saied's overreach and his administration's efforts to erode workers' rights. The union has specifically pointed to the government's alleged use of intimidation to stifle strikes, referencing the recent transport strike as a case in point. This confrontation highlights a fundamental disagreement over the balance of power between the executive and organized labor, with the UGTT asserting its role as a protector of workers' interests against what it views as authoritarian tendencies.
Internal Divisions and External Pressures on the UGTT
Analysts suggest that the UGTT, while still a formidable organization, is currently facing internal schisms that have somewhat weakened its cohesive power. A significant internal rupture occurred in 2021 when the union's board controversially extended its mandate from two to three terms. This decision is believed to have alienated a portion of its membership and created divisions within the organization. Furthermore, the prevailing economic hardship in the country, which disproportionately affects the state-dependent middle class—the union's core membership—exacerbates the situation, leading to a decline in faith in the current leadership.
The Impact of Internal Strife on Union Effectiveness
The internal discord within the UGTT, particularly the controversial decision to extend leadership terms, has had a tangible impact on its operational effectiveness and public perception. Many within the union view this internal maneuver as a 'coup d'état' against its own democratic principles, significantly undermining the board's ability to enact decisive actions. This internal strife, coupled with the broader economic downturn, has made the union vulnerable to external criticism, including President Saied's accusations of corruption and mismanagement, which resonate with a disillusioned membership.
Economic Hardship and Membership Discontent
Tunisia's deteriorating economic landscape has had a profound effect on the UGTT's membership base, predominantly composed of the state-dependent middle class. As citizens grapple with mounting financial pressures and a declining standard of living, their faith in established institutions, including the UGTT, has waned. This widespread discontent creates fertile ground for populist narratives, such as President Saied's characterization of the union as a corrupt entity. The economic distress amplifies existing grievances, making the union's leadership vulnerable to accusations of ineffectiveness and self-serving practices.
Emergence of Rival Unions and Government Strategy
In response to the evolving political climate and the perceived weakening of the UGTT, the Tunisian government appears to be fostering the growth of rival labor organizations. Notably, the government has announced its intention to discontinue the long-standing practice of allowing union officials to draw their government salaries while engaged in union activities. This move, alongside potential future measures, aims to disrupt the UGTT's financial and administrative structures. The government is also reportedly supporting the Union of Tunisian Workers (UTT), a rival entity, in its efforts to capitalize on any erosion of the UGTT's membership base.
Government Measures to Undermine the UGTT
The Tunisian government has initiated a series of strategic measures designed to diminish the UGTT's influence and operational capacity. A significant policy shift involves the cessation of salary payments for union officials who are simultaneously employed by the state. This decision directly targets a long-standing practice that has provided a degree of financial stability for union leaders. Analysts anticipate further governmental actions aimed at weakening the UGTT's established structures, potentially including the direct deduction of membership fees from state employees' salaries before remittance to the union.
The Rise of the UTT and its Implications
The emergence of the Union of Tunisian Workers (UTT) as a potential rival to the UGTT is a key development in Tunisia's labor landscape. Observers, such as author Hatem Nafti, suggest that the government may be actively encouraging the UTT to gain traction by exploiting any perceived weaknesses or divisions within the UGTT. The UTT has already demonstrated its alignment with the government's narrative by issuing statements critical of the UGTT's actions, specifically accusing its rival of defaming the president. However, the UTT's own leadership has faced previous convictions for corruption, raising questions about its credibility and potential to truly supplant the UGTT.
The Inevitable Confrontation: Saied vs. UGTT
The current standoff between President Kais Saied and the UGTT is, according to many analysts, an inevitable outcome of Saied's political strategy. His approach, characterized by a populist desire to eliminate any intermediaries between the leader and the populace, has led him to systematically dismantle rival political parties, civil society groups, and even critical media outlets. The UGTT, with its historical influence and substantial membership, represented the logical next target in his campaign to consolidate power and establish a direct, unmediated connection with the Tunisian people, making this confrontation a predictable, albeit significant, development.
Populism's Impact on Mediating Institutions
The core tenet of populist leadership often involves forging a direct, unmediated connection with the citizenry, bypassing traditional mediating institutions. President Saied's political trajectory in Tunisia exemplifies this phenomenon. Having systematically marginalized political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, his focus has inevitably turned towards the UGTT. This strategy aims to eliminate any organized opposition or alternative power bases that could challenge his authority or influence public discourse, thereby reinforcing his image as the sole representative of the people's will.
The UGTT as the Final Hurdle for Saied
With political parties weakened, civil society organizations largely neutralized, and the media landscape increasingly controlled, the UGTT stands as the most significant remaining obstacle to President Saied's complete consolidation of power. Its deep historical roots, extensive membership, and proven ability to mobilize populations make it a formidable force. Saied's administration has clearly identified the UGTT as the next institution to confront, understanding that its subjugation or weakening is crucial for the complete realization of his vision for a centralized state, unburdened by independent mediating bodies.
Key Takeaways: Tunisia's Political Landscape in Flux
The escalating confrontation between Tunisia's General Labour Union (UGTT) and President Kais Saied highlights a critical juncture in the nation's political evolution. Saied's consolidation of power, marked by constitutional revisions and the marginalization of traditional institutions, has positioned the UGTT as a primary target. The union, despite facing internal divisions and the pressures of economic hardship, remains a significant force capable of mobilizing public dissent. The government's strategy, which includes fostering rival unions and implementing measures to weaken the UGTT's infrastructure, underscores the high stakes involved. Ultimately, the outcome of this power struggle will significantly shape Tunisia's future democratic trajectory and the balance of power between the state and organized labor.
Key Entity | Role/Action | Significance |
UGTT (Tunisian General Labour Union) | Called for protest against government actions; historically influential in politics and labor rights. | Represents a significant counterweight to President Saied's consolidated power; its ability to mobilize is crucial. |
President Kais Saied | Consolidating power since July 2021; revising constitution; undermining parliament and parties. | Seeks direct connection with populace, bypassing traditional institutions; views UGTT as a key obstacle. |
Internal UGTT Divisions | 2021 decision to extend leadership mandate from two to three terms. | Weakened the union's cohesion and membership faith; made it vulnerable to external criticism. |
Economic Hardship in Tunisia | Affecting state-dependent middle class (UGTT's core membership). | Exacerbates public discontent; fuels narratives of union ineffectiveness and corruption. |
Union of Tunisian Workers (UTT) | Emerging rival union; government support suspected. | Aims to capitalize on UGTT's perceived weaknesses; faces credibility issues due to leadership's corruption charges. |
Government Strategy | Halting salaries for officials on union business; encouraging rival unions. | Aims to disrupt UGTT's financial and administrative structures; weaken its influence. |
Populism | Saied's approach of direct leader-to-people connection. | Drives the marginalization of mediating institutions like political parties, media, and unions. |
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