Tunisia has begun the trial of prominent opposition leaders on conspiracy charges, sparking protests near the Tunis court.
The opposition claims the trial is fabricated and symbolizes President Kais Saied’s authoritarian rule.
Forty individuals, including politicians, businessmen, and journalists, are being prosecuted. Over 20 have fled abroad, while some politicians were arrested in 2023 in a crackdown on opposition ranks.
The accused include Ghazi Chaouachi, Issam Chebbi, and Jawahar Ben Mbrak, among others.
Rights groups argue that the trial highlights Saied’s control over the judiciary since he dissolved the elected parliament in 2021.
The opposition leaders claim they were preparing an initiative to unite the fragmented opposition when they were arrested.
Chaima Issa, a senior official in the Salvation Front, stated, “This trial is unjust and a disgrace to the authorities. It is a purely political case that has included all political leaders.” Issa added, “Our charge is that we oppose the regime. I will continue the struggle at any cost.”
Most leaders of political parties in Tunisia are in prison, including Abir Moussi and Rached Ghannouchi, two of Saied’s most prominent opponents.
The government claims there is democracy in Tunisia, but Saied’s actions have raised concerns about authoritarianism.
