The UN has voiced strong condemnation of the ongoing persecution of Tunisia’s opposition, calling for an immediate cessation of the arbitrary arrests targeting human rights defenders, journalists, and lawyers. Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, urged Tunisian authorities to respect freedom of opinion and expression while advocating for the release of elderly and ailing detainees on humanitarian grounds, as declared by spokesperson Thameen al-Kheetan at a Geneva press briefing.
Since President Kais Saied’s controversial seizure of power on 25 July 2021, Tunisia has witnessed a severe crackdown on dissent. This regime change has led to a wave of arrests and vague accusations against activists, journalists, and politicians for simply exercising their rights. The UN highlighted alarming cases such as that of Abderrazak Krimi, Abir Moussi, and Sonia Dahmani, all of whom have resorted to hunger strikes during their detainment.
The high commissioner noted that recent trials involving journalists and political figures were plagued by significant violations of due process. Prominent opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi faces further long sentences, while former Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi and journalist Chahrazed Akacha received sentences in absentia. Charges against them include severe allegations of undermining state integrity and conspiring against the president.
As the political turmoil continues, more than 40 individuals implicated in these tensions are set to face trial in early March on charges of state conspiracy and terrorism. Reports estimate that over 80 political activists, journalists, and opposition figures remain imprisoned, illustrating a stark reality of political repression in Tunisia. The situation highlights a severe erosion of democratic freedoms and human rights within the nation.
The UN has strongly condemned the persecution of Tunisian opposition, urging the end of arbitrary arrests of activists and journalists. Following President Kais Saied’s power grab, a crackdown on dissent has led to numerous arrests and harsh sentences. Notable figures face severe charges as over 80 individuals remain imprisoned, highlighting alarming human rights violations in Tunisia.
The UN’s condemnation of Tunisia’s repression underscores a grave violation of fundamental human rights amid ongoing political turmoil. As opposition figures and journalists face harsh sentences and arbitrary detentions, calls for justice and humanitarian treatment resonate globally. The situation invites urgent attention to ensure that democratic principles are restored and upheld within the country.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
