Tunis, Tunisia – Arrests of politicians and a prominent businessman in Tunisia have raised questions and concerns in the country, as authorities accuse the detainees of plotting against state security and plotting a coup against President Qais Saeed. However, the opposition accused the president of intimidating his political opponents.
On Saturday, Tunisian authorities arrested Abdelhamid Jelassi, a political activist and former leader of the Ennahda movement, along with Khayyam al-Turki, an activist close to the movement, and Kamal Latif, a controversial businessman. They also included former security and diplomatic officials.
The detainees were charged with “conspiracy against state security” due to al-Turki’s activities which involved meeting with other opposition leaders to discuss “preparing an alternative to Qais Saeed”. Al-Turki’s defense said security forces illegally arrested him and held authorities responsible for his safety and life.
Political and human rights organizations and figures have condemned al- Turki’s arrest, rejecting “outdated methods of intimidation” and calling for the disclosure of his whereabouts and his immediate release.
Additionally, Jelassi’s defense said his arrest was accompanied by severe violations and his defense team was unable to contact him to secure his legal rights.
These arrests have raised concerns about the direction of the country and the repression of political opposition. Democratic and progressive forces in Tunisia call to confront repressive methods to protect fundamental rights and freedoms in Tunisia.
