Tunisia responded with astonishment to UN allegations of human rights abuses, particularly regarding the treatment of political opponents. The UN criticized the government for arbitrary arrests and flawed trials, which Tunisia dismissed as unfounded. Despite claims of maintaining human rights commitments, many political figures continue to face serious charges under controversial circumstances.
Tunisia has expressed profound astonishment following accusations from the United Nations regarding its record on human rights. The UN’s criticism highlighted a crackdown on political opponents, which Tunisia has dismissed as inaccurate and unfounded. President Kais Saied, who was elected in 2019 and later consolidated power in 2021, has faced allegations of rolling back freedoms in the country.
The UN human rights office reported instances of arbitrary arrests and flawed trials that target activists, journalists, and opposition figures. In response, Tunisia’s foreign ministry published a statement on Facebook, asserting, “Tunisia has received with deep astonishment the inaccuracies and criticisms contained in the statement issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.”
The Tunisian government reiterated its commitment to human rights and stated, “Tunisia does not need to emphasize its keenness to protect human rights as it deeply believes in these rights and is committed to the provisions of its constitution.” The statement further defended the actions of the nation’s security forces, asserting that they engage in securing and protecting demonstrators rather than targeting them.
Despite the international scrutiny, the ministry insisted that the cases cited by the UN pertain to public law crimes rather than any political repression. Authorities emphasized, “No one can claim to be above accountability or use pressure at home or abroad to evade justice or escape punishment.” Amid this conflict, activist Sihem Bensedrine was released from detention, albeit still facing prosecution and a travel ban.
A number of political figures, including Rached Ghannouchi of the Ennahdha party, remain detained, with many charged with plotting against state security. Ghannouchi recently received a 22-year prison sentence, with a significant trial, termed the “state security conspiracy case,” scheduled to commence on March 4.
The article details Tunisia’s strong reaction to criticism from the United Nations concerning its human rights practices, particularly the treatment of political opponents. It outlines the government’s insistence on its commitment to civil rights, positing that arrests and trials are conducted legally. Nonetheless, the situation remains tense as numerous activists and political figures face severe charges, with significant implications for Tunisia’s democratic landscape following President Kais Saied’s consolidation of power.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
