Tunisian President Cais Said dismissed the claims circulating about his health as false rumors spread by political opponents. In a clear defense of stability, he told reporters during a meeting with Prime Minister Najla Buden Romdan at a ceremonial palace in Carthage that those behind the chatter are trying to spark a crisis rather than inform the public. Said rejected the speculation, saying the accusers diagnosed his condition, prescribed treatments, and circulated numbers and test results without consulting him. He stressed that the notion of a power vacuum exists only in their imaginations.
Following the president’s remarks, the capital’s prosecutor ordered criminal proceedings to be opened against public administrators who used social networks to disseminate health information about the country’s president. The move signals a firm stance against unverified health updates that could destabilize governance and erode public trust.
In related commentary, Josep Borrell, the former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, conveyed the European Union’s concerns about how instability in Tunisia could trigger broader repercussions. He warned that a social or economic collapse might prompt a new wave of migrants seeking opportunities in Europe, underscoring the interconnected nature of regional stability and migration patterns.
As Tunisia continues to navigate questions of leadership and public communication, officials emphasize the importance of verified information and orderly procedures. The president’s team has urged citizens to rely on official channels for accuracy, while authorities reiterate their commitment to upholding rule of law and safeguarding civil discourse against misinformation.
Observers note that the situation highlights ongoing tensions between political factions and the public’s access to timely, truthful updates. The episode also reflects broader concerns about the role of social media in shaping perceptions of national health and leadership, and the potential consequences for domestic and international relations. [Agency reports] [European Union statements]