Sihem Bensedrine, a human rights activist, was released from prison by Tunisia’s Court of Appeal, despite ongoing investigations and charges against her. She began a hunger strike earlier this year, protesting her treatment and the allegations stemming from her work with the Truth and Dignity Commission, which seeks to address human rights abuses in Tunisia. Bensedrine’s activism has faced increased scrutiny as political tensions rise in the country, particularly with the upcoming elections.
Sihem Bensedrine, a prominent Tunisian human rights activist, was released from prison following a decision by the Court of Appeal. Despite calls from the UN for her unconditional release on February 5, she remains under investigation for various charges stemming from her work with the Truth and Dignity Commission (IVD), which she chairs.
Bensedrine began a hunger strike on January 14, 2025, and was hospitalized for her deteriorating health. The accusations against her arise primarily from her role in exposing human rights violations by former leaders since 1955.
Her legal troubles intensified following charges of falsifying a report on corruption in Tunisia’s banking system, despite the Court of Auditors finding no supportive evidence. She faced pretrial detention since August 2023, linked to serious allegations including fraud and forgery that allegedly damaged the state.
UN experts indicated that her arrest may be an attempt to undermine the Commission’s findings, potentially hindering legal cases against previous regime officials. Human Rights Watch emphasized that Tunisia’s use of pretrial detention potentially violates international standards on freedom of expression and association.
Notably, Bensedrine’s detention coincided with the arrest of 170 political dissidents ahead of the October 2024 elections. The IVD, which she leads, had previously issued a comprehensive report on human rights abuses, recommending prosecution of numerous officials, but authorities have since failed to act on these recommendations.
President Kaïes Saïed’s administration has undermined judicial independence through Decree 2022-11, granting him extensive powers to remove judges and prosecutors at will. Bensedrine’s activism spans almost four decades, including her past detentions and exile, reflecting her commitment to human rights in Tunisia, a nation that previously achieved significant legal advancements until Saïed’s power consolidation in 2021.
Bensedrine’s release highlights ongoing tensions in Tunisia regarding human rights and political freedoms. Her accusations and the government’s response reveal deeper issues affecting civil liberties in the country. The IVD’s unresolved findings and the recent political climate underline the need for vigilance in protecting human rights amid political repression.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
