The defendants, prosecuted under several articles of the Tunisian Penal Code and the 2015 anti-terrorism law for an alleged plot aimed at destabilising the country, are due to appear before the appeal court in the so-called “state conspiracy” case.
However, the opening of the hearing, initially scheduled for 17 November in Tunis, could be postponed, as the 37 convicted individuals refuse to participate via videoconference, their lawyers said.
The large-scale trial, concluded in April, resulted in prison sentences ranging from 4 to 66 years for political figures and academics, including opposition leader Jaouhar Ben M’Barek, who was sentenced to 18 years.
Concerns are mounting over the health of Jaouhar Ben M’Barek, who has been hospitalised after more than two weeks on hunger strike. His sister, Dalila Ben M’Barek, said on social media on 16 November that he had been transferred to hospital twice following an alleged assault in his cell. His lawyer stressed that his health is “deteriorating” and that the appeal proceedings are unfolding “under heavy pressure”.
Human Rights Watch denounced a “context of repression” surrounding the case, saying the prosecution appears politically motivated. The NGO urged authorities to ensure the physical safety of detainees and guarantee a trial that meets international standards.
Prison authorities reject these allegations. The General Directorate of Prisons says reports of collective hunger strikes are “unfounded” and maintains that all detainees receive regular medical monitoring.
Speaking before the Tunisian Parliament on 15 November, Justice Minister Leila Jaffel reiterated this position, stating that “no detainee is currently on hunger strike” and that “no act of violence” has occurred in prison facilities.
The 17 November hearing is expected to review the appeals filed by the 37 convicted individuals, among whom are well-known opposition members and civil society figures.
However, the court may postpone the examination of the appeals if the defendants maintain their refusal to appear via videoconference, which judicial authorities justify on security grounds. Lawyers fear that their absence could lead to yet another delay in the proceedings.
MK/te/lb/as/APA