Summary:

In recent weeks, Tunisia’s electricity crisis intensified as prolonged power outages during an extreme heatwave fueled widespread public frustration, triggering protests and clashes with police in several cities after days of mounting criticism on social media.

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According to STEG, the rotating outages were necessary to protect the national grid after electricity demand exceeded available capacity, largely driven by exceptional temperatures and record air conditioning use. The disruptions also affected water distribution, businesses and essential services, further amplifying criticism over the government’s handling of the crisis.  

During the unrest, President Kais Saied’s absence from the public scene fueled speculation on social media about his health and ability to manage the situation. He later reappeared during visits to several sites and described the electricity disruptions as “abnormal,” calling for accountability. However, his return did little to calm public anger, as outages continued and tangible solutions from both the government and STEG remained absent. 

Outlook: 

The electricity crisis has evolved into a broader test of the government’s ability to manage essential services during periods of heightened demand. While the immediate trigger remains the heatwave and pressure on the national grid, public frustration is increasingly driven by the absence of visible corrective measures and limited communication beyond scheduled outage notices.  

Public frustrations are also being fueled by the large number of members of the Tunisian diaspora currently in Tunisia for summer travels, increasing the focus and criticism on the issue. 

Unless the authorities demonstrate a clearer response to the crisis, electricity disruptions are likely to remain a focal point for broader socio-economic grievances, increasing the risk of further localized unrest. 

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