Tunisians begin to vote in controversial referendum

A contentious new constitution that would cement considerable additional powers gained by the president, Kais Saied, is up for referendum among Tunisians.

A year ago, he disbanded the legislature, and since then, he has ruled primarily by decree.

This would be formalized by the proposed constitution, which would make the president the sole powerholder and subordinate parliament to him.

Changes, according to Mr. Saied and his allies, are required to put a stop to political corruption and factionalism.

The comparatively open democracy that was established following the 2011 popular revolt that ousted the despotic previous president Zine al-Abidine, Ben Ali, according to detractors, would be ended by the reforms, they claim.