Tunisia’s Ennahdha party criticized the 22-year prison sentence of leader Ghannouchi, branding it a political trial lacking in judicial impartiality. With multiple opposition figures also receiving lengthy sentences, concerns about authoritarianism under President Saied are growing amidst economic turmoil and diminishing political freedoms.
Tunisia’s Ennahdha party has condemned the 22-year prison sentence handed to its leader, Rached Ghannouchi, citing the trial as a politically motivated attack on judicial independence. The party argues that the charges are reminiscent of the repressive regime that preceded the 2011 Arab Spring. Ennahdha claims the legal proceedings were fraught with significant violations and lack of fairness.
Ghannouchi, arrested in April 2023 on incitement charges, has accumulated various prison sentences, including a recent penalty for allegedly receiving foreign contributions. Supporters maintain that Ghannouchi, aged 83, remains optimistic despite health concerns and is protesting the lack of judicial fairness by refusing to attend court hearings. Ennahdha plans to take their fight to international courts.
Multiple members of the Ennahdha party faced severe sentences in the recent court rulings, including former Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi, who received 35 years in absentia. The court pronounced convictions against many others, including Ghannouchi’s family members, with sentences ranging from 15 to 35 years. Lawyers have denounced the legal actions as politically motivated attempts to suppress opposition.
The actions taken by President Kais Saied, who dissolved the parliament in 2021 and ruled by decree, have raised concerns about a potential drift towards authoritarianism. Saied defended his moves by claiming they are necessary for stability, amidst worsening economic conditions. Human rights groups expressed alarms about the rising population in prisons, underscoring fears related to political repression.
The political climate in Tunisia has been tense following President Kais Saied’s consolidation of power since 2021. Saied’s actions, including the suspension and eventual dissolution of parliament, have sparked accusations of authoritarianism. The current judicial handling of opposition leaders, particularly Ghannouchi, has intensified fears that the country is sliding back into a more oppressive governance reminiscent of pre-revolutionary times.
In summary, the recent sentencing of Rached Ghannouchi reflects deepening political strife in Tunisia, with the Ennahdha party characterizing the trial as a politically charged attack. The conviction of multiple opposition figures indicates a systematic effort to weaken political dissent. Criticism of Saied’s government continues amidst growing economic challenges and concerns over judiciary independence.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
