Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT) has been dealt a major blow after its secretary-general, Nourredine Taboubi, reportedly resigned just weeks before a planned nationwide strike.
The strike, scheduled for January 21, 2026, is intended to protest President Kais Saied’s widening crackdown on political dissent and to press the government to reopen stalled wage negotiations.
Taboubi’s sudden departure raises concerns about the union’s ability to mobilise effectively at a critical moment. The UGTT, which has around one million members, is widely seen as one of the last remaining pillars of organised civil society in Tunisia amid shrinking democratic space.
For decades, the powerful labour federation has played a central role in the country’s political life. It was instrumental in guiding Tunisia’s democratic transition after the 2011 revolution and later earned international recognition for its role in national dialogue efforts that helped avert political collapse.
Analysts warn that leadership uncertainty within the UGTT could weaken resistance to Saied’s increasingly authoritarian governance, particularly as opposition parties, independent media and civil society groups face mounting pressure.
Neither the union nor the presidency has officially commented on Taboubi’s resignation, as tensions continue to rise ahead of the planned industrial action.
–ChannelAfrica–
