A trial for Tunisian opposition figures charged with plotting against state security is starting amid allegations of political motivations and unfair practices. Approximately 40 defendants, many critical of President Kais Saied, face serious charges. Detractors argue the judicial process lacks transparency and fairness, highlighting broader concerns about democratic freedoms in Tunisia.
A high-profile trial of several Tunisian opposition figures accused of conspiring against state security will commence on Tuesday. Critics and rights groups have labeled this trial as politically motivated and unjust. Approximately 40 notable defendants, including former diplomats, politicians, lawyers, and journalists, are facing charges of plotting against state security, with potential severe penalties.
Among those charged are Jawhar Ben Mbarek, a prominent political figure, and Abdelhamid Jelassi, both vocal critics of President Kais Saied, who described them as “terrorists” during a wave of arrests in February 2023. The charges also include allegations of terrorist group affiliation.
Additional individuals facing charges include activists Khayam Turki and Chaima Issa, businessman Kamel Eltaief, and Bochra Belhaj Hmida, a human rights activist living in France. Notably, French intellectual Bernard-Henri Levy is also named among the defendants for alleged connections with foreign diplomats.
Ben Mbarek claimed the case represents an effort to systematically silence dissenting voices, labeling it as “judicial harassment.” His lawyer, Dalila Msaddek, stated the allegations are founded on false testimony, and the trial’s arrangements, including remote proceedings without defendants present, have been criticized as unfair.
Critics have expressed concerns over secretive witness testimonies and evidentiary proceedings, which they argue undermine the integrity of the trial. Riadh Chaibi, an Ennahdha member, termed the case as lacking rationale, while Samir Dilou condemned it as “judicial madness.”
The situation escalated as some critics of Saied face different charges, such as controlling false information. Rached Ghannouchi, the 83-year-old Ennahdha leader, was sentenced to 22 years for similar charges earlier this month.
The trial of Tunisian opposition figures has ignited significant controversy, with accusations of political manipulation and violations of fair trial rights. Opponents and rights groups express concern over the legitimacy of the charges and the procedures employed by judicial authorities. The case symbolizes broader issues regarding freedom of expression and the state of democracy in Tunisia under President Saied’s regime.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
