Tunisian President Kais Saied fired 57 judges, accusing them of "corruption and protecting terrorists."

In a TV address, he said he had given the judiciary numerous opportunities and warnings to "clean up," the BBC reported.

Among those fired was Youssef Bouzaker, former head of the Supreme Judicial Council.

Saied replaced the council earlier this year, part of his efforts to consolidate his position after he seized power last July. He has already dissolved Tunisia's elected parliament and abrogated the constitution.

Saied has promised to hold a referendum on a new constitution next month.

Opposition parties and major labor unions are boycotting the move.