IHRC has launched a new campaign to apply public pressure on the British and foreign governments to help secure the freedom of political prisoners currently being held by the Tunisian regime.

In 2021 Kais Saied, the president of Tunisia suspended and dissolved parliament in order to rule by decree. His regime has bullied the judiciary, censored the press, harassed opponents with criminal investigations and arrested many more.

At least 39 people are being investigated under charges of “insulting the authorities” and “spreading fake news” simply for exercising their freedom of expression. Saied has also said, “Anyone who dares to acquit [those arrested] is their accomplice”.

In 25th July 2022 he gave himself even more powers by introducing a new constitution, which passed through a referendum in which there was only a 30.5% turnout. In September 2022 he issued Decree Law 54, which grants the police power to crack down on social media freedom of speech.

The political figures President Saied has targeted and imprisoned included political veterans such as 81-year-old Rached Ghannouchi, the founder of the opposition Ennahda Party, and fellow party member and former MP Said Ferjani.

[ENDS]

For more information or comment please contact the Press Office on (+44) 208 904 0222  or (+44) 7958 522196 or email media@ihrc.org
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IHRC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
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