A Tunisian court has sentenced several top politicians, former officials, and journalists to lengthy prison terms, sparking criticism from opponents who claim President Kais Saied is attempting to silence opposition voices.
Rached Ghannouchi, head of the Islamist-leaning Ennahda party, received a 22-year sentence, while former Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi was handed a 35-year term.
Both were charged with conspiring against the state.
Other notable sentences include:
- Journalist Sentences: Chahrazad Akacha received a 27-year sentence, despite having fled abroad, while Chadha Haj Mbarak was given a five-year sentence.
- Former Officials: Lazhar Longo, a former intelligence director, and Mohamed Ali Aroui, a former interior ministry spokesman, were sentenced to 15 years in prison each.
Lawyers and opposition parties have condemned the sentences as “unjust and political rulings” aimed at eliminating opposition.
This move is seen as part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Tunisia, with many accusing Saied of imposing one-man rule and filling prisons with politicians and journalists.
