In recent days police have detained several prominent politicians, two judges, a leading journalist and a senior union official.

On Wednesday, the US said it was "deeply concerned" by the reported arrests in recent days.

"We respect the aspirations of the Tunisian people for an independent and transparent judiciary that is able to protect fundamental freedoms for all," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.

Eighteen months ago President Saied shut down Tunisia’s parliament and moved to rule by decree before rewriting the country’s constitution.

He's been accused of mounting a coup.

The UN has voiced alarm over the arrests, but the president has insisted those detained are traitors, responsible for soaring price increases and severe food shortages.