A Tunisian judge released journalist Mohamed Boughalleb on February 20, amid concerns about press freedom under President Kais Saied’s administration. This release may lead to others from the opposition being freed, yet senior political figures remain imprisoned. The U.N. has called for an end to arbitrary detentions, highlighting a worrying trend for media and political freedoms in Tunisia.
On February 20, a Tunisian judge ordered the release of journalist Mohamed Boughalleb, known for his criticism of President Kais Saied. This decision is viewed positively by opposition factions, as it may lead to the release of other detained political and media figures. Boughalleb had been detained on the charge of insulting a public official, which was condemned by journalists’ unions as an attempt to stifle dissenting media voices.
The same day marked the release of former minister Riadh Mouakhar, following the earlier release of Sihem Ben Sedrine, the head of the Truth and Dignity Commission, who had been in custody for months. These releases are seen as a response to calls from the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights to end arbitrary detentions and arrests of journalists and political figures in Tunisia.
Despite these recent developments, several senior political leaders, including Abir Moussi of the Free Constitutional Party and Rached Ghannouchi of the Ennahda party, remain in detention since 2023. Their continued imprisonment raises concerns about the state of political freedoms in Tunisia amid ongoing crackdowns.
Historically, Tunisia has been recognized for its commitment to press freedom following the 2011 revolution. However, under President Saied’s rule, this principle is under increasing threat, as he has consolidated power since 2021 by dismissing the elected parliament and controlling the judiciary, leading critics to raise concerns about authoritarian tendencies.
The release of journalist Mohamed Boughalleb signifies a potential shift in Tunisia’s current political climate, amid ongoing human rights concerns and the government’s crackdown on dissent. While welcomed by opposition allies, the continued detention of various political figures highlights the fragile state of press freedom and democratic progress in Tunisia. The situation remains critical under President Saied’s consolidation of power and his stance against accusations of authoritarianism.
Original Source: northafricapost.com
