Late students will not be allowed entry. If you talk to your classmate during the lesson, you will be warned. If you repeat the behavior, you will be told to leave. Fadoua El Ouni was surprised when she took Kais Saied's constitutional law class at Carthage University, but not all courses were like that. Saied was known on campus for captivating classrooms with his powerful voice and formal speech. However, since he suspended parliament and dismissed his prime minister amid protests, Tunisians have been puzzled by the contradictions in his actions. Some see him as a beloved figure, while others question his methods of seizing power. There is a debate over whether he is a hero or a dangerous leader, and whether he will save or destroy Tunisia's democracy. Despite his uncompromising nature, some believe he is the last hope to fulfill the goals of the revolution. "We are aware that individuals who are considered to be moral and upright can sometimes become ruthless and violent. Saied, a respected law professor, is not known for indulging in extravagant luxuries like other dictators. His lifestyle is modest, preferring local coffee shops and living in a middle-class neighborhood with his family. Saied believes his duty is to empower the youth and the underprivileged, rather than seeking personal gain. He aims to improve education, healthcare, and eliminate corruption in Tunisia, stating that he is running for president against his own desires." God says that warfare is necessary, even though it is something that people may hate. It is a duty that is similar to a soldier being on the front lines of battle, not wanting to kill but being obligated to fight. Saied's office did not respond to a request for an interview. As a devout Muslim, Saied has referred to his presidency as a test from God that he cannot refuse. According to Mohamed-Dhia Hammami, a Tunisian political researcher at Syracuse University, Saied is implying that he is fulfilling his role as president because it is a duty that he cannot ignore, as it is what the people want. The belief in Islam is that everyone will face challenges, and in the case of this individual, it is serving as the president. Some may view this as a lofty excuse for manipulation, but even those who oppose him acknowledge that his beliefs are genuine and stem from his faith and concern for the less fortunate. Saied, who comes from a diverse family in Tunis, rose to prominence in 2011 following the initial wave of protests and the departure of Ben Ali. When protesters from marginalized areas staged large demonstrations in Tunis, demanding significant reforms, Saied was one of the few established figures to stand in solidarity with them. Videos showing his visits quickly spread on Facebook. While participating in an advisory committee during the drafting of a new constitution, Saied was not given one of the pens, a move that clearly bothered him. He frequently appeared on Tunisian television criticizing the new constitution for being too favorable towards Parliament. He also expressed concern that voters would be limited to choosing from electoral lists promoted by power-hungry political parties. Tunisians would have a stronger connection to their democracy if they chose representatives they were familiar with. The professor suggested a political system that involved both grassroots and top-down approaches, with power coming from local councils and a strong president. Despite skepticism, the professor remained steadfast in his beliefs. An activist who interacted with him during the transition to democracy remembered him as humble and charitable, but also stubborn in his arguments. (Due to the intense political atmosphere, most individuals interviewed preferred to remain anonymous when discussing the president.) Many Tunisians considered him essential viewing on television, as if he was revealing the ultimate truth about the constitution, according to Amna Guellali, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. His authoritative presence was so captivating that some likened it to a prophet's voice, transcending human limitations. With corruption scandals and economic hardships increasing, Tunisians admired his stern leadership even more, prompting them to create Facebook pages encouraging him to run for president. Despite the public's support, he declined to do so until 2019. The tale of his campaign has become well-known in Tunisia: the famous slogan "The people want," reminiscent of the chants during the 2011 revolution; the volunteers who joined without being asked; the limited campaign financing, restricted to what he had in his wallet; the reputation for honesty, despite rumors of foreign funding; and the overwhelming victory in the runoff election. "The people hold the power," he stated in an interview. "Everything should begin with them." He later revealed that he decided to run for president after a destitute man begged him in tears, a moment he likened to a religious experience. This was not the only such encounter. Videos often surface online of Saied hugging impoverished protesters at the presidential palace or taking time to greet regular Tunisians on the street. Imen Neffati, a Tunisia researcher at Oxford University, stated that what sets this politician apart is his genuine concern for people, which is lacking in other politicians. Critics have labeled him as merely a law professor who did not complete his doctorate. Additionally, some have criticized his social beliefs, such as his support for the death penalty, opposition to equal inheritance between genders, and negative stance on homosexuality. He has even suggested that those promoting homosexuality are part of a foreign conspiracy. Despite differing opinions, one trait that everyone can agree on is his unwavering determination. An European ambassador and informal adviser has stated that he will not negotiate with corrupt politicians or parties, which includes Ennahda, the dominant party in Parliament, as well as many of Tunisia's business and political leaders. Diplomats have described every meeting at the presidential palace as a lecture rather than a dialogue. Advisers have noted that he only listens to a few people, including his wife. Since July 25, Saied's security forces have imposed travel bans and house arrests on judges, politicians, and business owners without due process, causing concerns that he may be moving towards autocracy. His office recently announced an extension of the 30-day period initially set for his "exceptional measures," without specifying for how long. It is widely anticipated that he will attempt to alter Tunisia's electoral system and revise its constitution in order to expand the authority of the president. Despite his pledge to appoint a new prime minister by Tuesday, Tarek Kahlaoui, a Tunisian political analyst, was informed by presidential advisers that Saied sees the role more as a "manager" rather than a true head of government. Saied justified his power grab by referencing Article 80 of the constitution, which allows the president broad emergency powers in times of imminent danger. However, constitutional experts believe his actions went against this provision, as it requires Parliament to be in session. Despite his adherence to legal technicalities, those who know him well claim that Saied often makes decisions based on emotion and instinct. Kahlaoui believes that the people have selected him. They took to the streets, prompting him to take action.