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Tunisian Authorities Given Deadline to Allow Access to Political Prisoners, Says African Court
The African Court on Human and People’s Rights has issued an order to the Tunisian government, demanding that they remove all barriers preventing detained political prisoners from accessing their legal representatives and doctors. The court’s decision comes after a case was filed on behalf of the families of these prisoners, who have been seeking justice and freedom for their loved ones.
The court has given Tunisian authorities 15 days to implement measures that would provide detainees with adequate information about the reasons for their detention and ensure that their families and lawyers are informed as well. The detainees include prominent opposition figures such as Rached Ghannouchi, the former speaker of parliament and leader of Ennahdha, the country’s largest political party. Other individuals, such as Said Ferjani, Ghazi Chaouachi, and Noureddine Bhiri, have also been named in the case.
Family members of the detainees have expressed concerns about the inhumane conditions in which their loved ones are being held. According to Kaouther Ferjani, the daughter of Said Ferjani, her father is confined to a severely overcrowded cell, sharing unsanitary facilities with over a hundred other inmates. The environment is described as infested and damp, creating significant impacts on his well-being.
President Kais Saied, who dissolved parliament in July 2021, has faced criticism for his actions, which have been labeled a “coup” by his opponents and rights groups. Saied has consolidated power by writing a new constitution, taking control of the judiciary, and diluting the electoral commission. As a result, he has been accused of pursuing his critics and imprisoning them on trumped-up charges, claiming that they are involved in a conspiracy against state security.
The African Court’s order requires the Tunisian government to eliminate all barriers preventing access to legal representation and medical care for political prisoners. The government has been given 15 days to comply with these measures and respond to the court’s decision.
As the families of the detainees continue their fight for justice, the international community will be closely monitoring the Tunisian government’s response to the African Court’s order. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for human rights and the rule of law in Tunisia.