Tunisia’s recent announcement regarding its withdrawal from the African Union’s human rights Court has sparked alarms about its waning commitment to human rights. In a statement, the Tunisian government revealed it will no longer accept the Court’s jurisdiction for individual or non-governmental cases. This decision coincides with a troubling trend towards authoritarianism, particularly after President Kais Saied’s power consolidation in 2019.
Withdrawing from this Tanzania-based court strips individuals and NGOs of the ability to lodge complaints against the government, thus eroding accountability mechanisms. This action follows multiple legal challenges faced by Tunisia, including a significant case in May 2023, where relatives of four political detainees, including Ennahdha leader Rached Ghannouchi, sought their release. An August 2023 ruling from the AU court had already urged Tunisia to grant these detainees access to medical care and legal counsel.
The Tunisian League for Human Rights (LTDH) has strongly denounced the withdrawal, labelling it a “secretive decision” and a “dangerous step backward.” The organization has highlighted concerns that this move may conceal attempts to escape independent judicial scrutiny and hamper the progress of justice and accountability in Tunisia.
Tunisia has withdrawn from the African Union’s human rights Court, raising serious concerns about its human rights commitments amidst an authoritarian trend under President Kais Saied. This decision cuts off access for individuals and NGOs seeking redress for human rights violations. The Tunisian League for Human Rights has condemned this move, viewing it as a dangerous regression in judicial accountability.
Tunisia’s exit from the African Union’s human rights Court introduces alarming implications for human rights within the country, illustrating a shift towards authoritarianism under President Kais Saied. The decision limits avenues for accountability and showcases the government’s endeavour to evade international oversight. As advocated by the Tunisian League for Human Rights, there is an urgent need to uphold judicial independence and combat impunity.
Original Source: medafricatimes.com
