Human Rights Watch has urged Tunisian authorities to release three activists detained following what the organization describes as a “sham trial.” The detentions are viewed as politically motivated, occurring amidst efforts by President Kais Saied’s administration to stifle opposition. HRW’s deputy Middle East director, Bassam Khawaja, highlights that these arrests are part of a broader strategy to suppress any political dissent, a significant shift towards authoritarianism in Tunisia.
The individuals arrested include Chaima Issa, a member of the National Salvation Front, Ayachi Hammami, a human rights lawyer initially serving as a defense attorney in the case, and Ahmed Neijib Chebbi, a prominent political foe of the current administration. The arrests fall under the so-called “Conspiracy Case,” where the Tunis Court of First Instance quickly issued sentences without allowing time for adequate defense as per reports from human rights organizations.
These developments follow HRW’s earlier findings, indicating an increase in arbitrary arrests since early 2023, further eroding Tunisia’s democratic processes. Allegations include detainees being subjected to harsh conditions and inadequate medical care.
President Saied, who was re-elected in October 2024, has refashioned Tunisia’s political landscape, citing a need to combat corruption. Despite international concerns, including a European Parliament resolution urging the release of detainees, Saied views such actions as external interference, emphasizing Tunisia’s sovereignty in handling its internal affairs.
Tunisia is bound by international legal frameworks, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, both of which ensure rights to a fair trial, free expression, and protection against arbitrary detention. HRW plans to continue monitoring the situation, underscoring the potential breach of Tunisia’s international obligations.