Tunisia's Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE) has a new structure with the issuance of decree 3 of 2026. The decree, signed into law on October 1, 2026, amends certain provisions of the basic law number 23 of 2012, relating to the ISIE. According to ISIE spokesperson, Mohamed Tlili Mansri, the decree allows for the harmonization of legislative texts with the 2022 constitution.
The 2022 constitution stipulates that the ISIE consists of 9 members who serve for 6 years, non-renewable, with one-third of the members renewed every 2 years. Previously, the basic law number 23 of 2012 provided for 7 members serving a 4-year term. Mansri stated that the new decree brings the ISIE's composition in line with the constitution. The changes aim to ensure the independence and impartiality of the electoral body.
The new decree introduces two new members to the ISIE: a statistician and a retired diplomat. Mansri emphasized that these additions are crucial to the ISIE's work. The statistician will help with the distribution of polling stations and voting centers, while the diplomat will facilitate the distribution of electoral materials to centers outside the country. These changes are expected to enhance the ISIE's efficiency and effectiveness.
The decree also provides for the continuity of the current ISIE members until the new council takes office. According to Mansri, this provision prevents a vacancy or gap in the ISIE's operations. The current council will continue to organize partial elections and oversee procedures related to the random draw for the rotation of members in regional and local councils.
The appointment of new ISIE members is the prerogative of the President of the Republic. The President will invite relevant bodies, including judicial councils, the National Center for Informatics, the National Institute for Statistics, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to nominate their representatives. The President will then select the new ISIE members from these nominations.
The new decree consists of 5 articles that outline the composition of the ISIE, the term of office for each member, and the procedures for selecting members. The ISIE will comprise 9 independent and impartial members with expertise and integrity. The selection process involves nominations from various institutions, including the judiciary, the National Center for Informatics, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Key aspects of the decree include the selection of members with specific expertise, such as statisticians and diplomats. The decree also provides for a staggered renewal of ISIE members, with one-third of the members renewed every 2 years. This aims to ensure continuity and stability in the ISIE's operations.
Key points
- The decree brings the ISIE's composition in line with the 2022 constitution.
- The ISIE will consist of 9 members serving a 6-year term, non-renewable.
- The decree introduces new members to the ISIE, including a statistician and a retired diplomat.
