The mass trial of around 40 opposition figures in Tunisia, accused of national security offences, has sparked protests and is denounced as politically motivated. Accusations include plotting against state security, with potential heavy penalties. Lawyers and family members criticize the judiciary for perceived government influence. Human Rights organizations have raised concerns over the broader implications for civil liberties in Tunisia under President Kais Saied’s rule.
The mass trial of prominent Tunisian opposition figures commenced on a Tuesday, with numerous lawyers and relatives denouncing the proceedings as politically motivated. Approximately 40 high-profile defendants, including activists, politicians, and media figures, are accused of national security offences such as “plotting against the state security” and membership in a terrorist group, which potentially carries severe penalties, including capital punishment.
During the court session, family members of the accused expressed their discontent by chanting “freedom” and criticized the judiciary for being influenced by governmental pressure. Defence lawyer Abdelaziz Essid urged the judges to terminate what he described as the “absurdity” of the case, which has drawn condemnation from Human Rights Watch as a “mockery of a trial.” After the initial hearing, which was adjourned to allow the court to consider defense requests, the next court session is scheduled for April 11.
The notable figures involved in the case include Jawhar Ben Mbarek, Ennahdha leader Abdelhamid Jelassi, and National Salvation Front co-founder Issam Chebbi, among others. Defence committee lawyer Dalila Msaddek warned that pre-determined sentences might already be in place, asserting that the accusations made against the defendants were based on false testimonies. Some were allegedly involved in communications with foreign diplomats.
Following their arrests in February 2023, President Kais Saied labelled the defendants as “terrorists,” with additional individuals either free pending trial or having fled abroad. Since his election in 2019, Saied has faced criticism for a power consolidation effort that threatens civil liberties, sparking concerns from rights organizations regarding a reduction in freedoms. Defence lawyers have expressed frustration over limited access to case files, with Essid asserting, “None of the lawyers have the complete file.”
In the context of the trial, Ben Mbarek characterized the proceedings as “judicial harassment” aimed at erasing dissenting voices. National Salvation Front leader Ahmed Nejib Chebbi condemned the trial as unjust, affirming that opposing the government should not be criminalized.
President Saied has refrained from intervening in judicial matters regarding detained individuals and remains at the center of several controversies, including the imprisonment of critics under anti-false news legislation. The United Nations recently called upon Tunisian authorities to cease the pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions affecting human rights defenders, lawyers, and opposition figures. In response, Tunisia’s foreign ministry dismissed the UN statements as inaccurate and criticized external suggestions regarding internal governance.
The mass trial of opposition figures in Tunisia, criticized as politically motivated and unjust, raises significant concerns regarding judicial integrity and civil liberties in the country. The proceedings have sparked protests and outcries from defense lawyers and relatives, highlighting fears of pre-determined sentences based on unfounded accusations. The international community’s calls for an end to repressive measures against dissent further emphasize the importance of protecting democratic rights in Tunisia following recent power consolidations under President Kais Saied.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
