The appeal trial of some 40 opposition figures, sentenced to heavy prison terms in the first instance for “conspiracy against state security,” opened on Monday, but was quickly postponed until November 17.
The defense for those accused in the trial for “conspiracy against the Tunisian state” cited irregularities to request the postponement.
The appeals court agreed and will convene on November 17. One of the lawyers denounced “procedural violations,” citing the absence of the defendants.
Around forty people, including party leaders, lawyers, and media figures from various political
backgrounds, are being prosecuted for “conspiracy against the internal and external security of the state” and “membership in a terrorist group.”
Among those implicated are opposition leader Jawhar Ben Mbarek, party leaders Issam Chebbi and Ghazi Chaouachi, businessman Kamel Eltaief, and feminist Bochra Belhaj Hmida. Several of them were arrested during a crackdown on the opposition in 2023.
Since the investigation began in February 2023, the accused have firmly rejected the charges, which they consider trumped up within a context of political repression and authoritarian recentralisation of power under President Kais Saied.
Their lawyers denounce the “manipulation of the judiciary for political ends” and a climate of fear that is undermining civil liberties.
AK/Sf/fss/as/APA