In a troubling development for human rights in Algeria, Mounir Gharbi, a prominent lawyer and advocate, has been convicted for social media posts. Gharbi, who’s also a member of the National Committee for the Liberation of Detainees, has been vocal about the rights of political prisoners since the Hirak movement began in 2019. His legal troubles centre around comments he made online and statements made during court appearances, reflecting his commitment to defending those incarcerated for their beliefs.
On April 6, 2022, Gharbi took to Facebook to voice his thoughts on the 2020 death of activist Madani Lslous and the latter’s arrest in 2022. These events had been widely covered by various media channels, even reaching Algeria’s state-run outlets. However, this expression of opinion led to Gharbi being summoned by police the following May, where he was interrogated about his posts.
Fast forward to February 16, 2025, the Setif court delivered a surprising verdict by sentencing Gharbi to three years in jail, with part of this including a one-year prison term. Charges against him included “displaying publications to the public that could harm national interest” and “contempt of constituted authority” under articles 96 and 146 of the Penal Code. The legal atmosphere around freedom of expression seems to be tightening further in Algeria.
Gharbi is not just facing this single case. On December 3, 2024, he found himself back in the hot seat, being questioned by judges about a plea made in 2020 that defended the rights of political prisoners. The authorities took issue with his public comments made during that courtroom argument, charging him with “insulting and assaulting public officials.”
In a bid to continue his legal career, Gharbi sought accreditation from the Supreme Court and Council of State in June 2022, a request which was approved but has now languished without any response from the justice ministry. This might seem like an administrative hiccup, but it raises eyebrows, especially as others in similar positions have received timely feedback.
Internationally, concerns have been growing. The UN Human Rights Committee previously flagged the problematic nature of Algeria’s application of laws against free speech. MENA Rights Group, stepping in to defend Gharbi, filed an urgent appeal on March 31, 2025, underscoring the violation of his right to freedom of expression as outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
A dim light shines on Algeria’s legal landscape, particularly for those who dare to voice dissent, raising questions about the future of human rights and judicial independence. The situation for Gharbi serves as a barometer of the struggles still faced by advocates in the nation today.
Mounir Gharbi, an Algerian human rights lawyer, has been sentenced following Facebook posts and courtroom statements about political prisoners. Facing a three-year sentence and fines, Gharbi’s case raises alarms about restrictions on free speech in Algeria. MENA Rights Group has appealed to the UN, claiming these proceedings violate international agreements on freedom of expression.
Mounir Gharbi’s sentencing illustrates a grim reality for human rights defenders in Algeria. His legal challenges, stemming from social media and courtroom remarks, reflect a broader crackdown on freedom of expression. With a note of alarm from international observers, the path ahead seems fraught with obstacles for those bravely defending fundamental rights. Gharbi’s case raises pressing concerns about the future of legal and activist work in Algeria, heralding a need for urgent attention from global advocacy areas.
Original Source: menarights.org
