Tunisia: Kais Saied takes action against corruption and foreign interference

During the opening of the National Security Council on Monday, May 6, 2024, President Kais Saied examined several sensitive issues impacting the security and stability of the State, affirming his solid position against corruption and influence abroad through association funding.

Associations under surveillance

President Saied emphasised that certain associations, which he describes as “khawana” (traitors) and “agents”, obtain large sums of money from abroad. He insisted that these organizations should not substitute the Tunisian state.

The example cited of the association for the reception of migrants, which allegedly issued a call for tenders without respecting official channels. The president recalled that the Tunisian Red Crescent is better prepared to handle such situations by respecting Tunisian laws on foreigners.

Migrant file and return of the law

Concerning irregular immigration, Saied reported that almost 400 individuals were returned to the eastern border on Monday. He tied the worsening migration crisis to abnormal internal conditions and external influences, indicating the seizure of more than 20 million dinars in a single center in Sfax, demonstrating the scale of foreign funding.

Sanctions against corrupt officials

The president also disclosed that officials, initially tasked with fighting corruption but who ended up joining corrupt networks, will be brought to justice.

This measure underlines its determination to “clean up” establishments and restore integrity within the Tunisian administration.