Thu Feb 06 12:16:09 UTC 2025: ## Tunisian Opposition Leader Ghannouchi Receives 22-Year Prison Sentence in Controversial Trial

**Tunis, Tunisia** – Rached Ghannouchi, leader of Tunisia’s Ennahdha opposition party, has been sentenced to an additional 22 years in prison on charges of plotting against state security, sparking widespread condemnation from the party and international observers. This latest sentence, handed down Wednesday, adds to previous sentences totaling four years, bringing his total prison term to 26 years. The Ennahdha party denounced the proceedings as a “political trial,” reminiscent of the pre-2011 authoritarian regime.

The trial, involving 41 defendants including other Ennahdha figures, resulted in lengthy prison sentences for several prominent individuals. Former Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi received a 35-year sentence, while Said Ferjani, a member of Ennahdha’s political executive, was sentenced to 13 years. Ghannouchi’s son, daughter, and son-in-law also received lengthy sentences. Several journalists were also convicted, with one receiving a 27-year sentence.

Ennahdha argues that the charges are politically motivated, designed to silence dissent and consolidate President Kais Saied’s power. Ahmed Gaaloul, an advisor to Ghannouchi, described the proceedings as a “propaganda tool” for Saied amid a deep economic crisis. He indicated that Ennahdha would challenge the sentences in international courts. Ghannouchi himself is reportedly refusing to appear before Tunisian judges, protesting the lack of an independent judiciary.

The sentences come amidst growing concerns about human rights and the erosion of democratic institutions in Tunisia. The National Authority for the Prevention of Torture reported alarmingly high prison numbers, exceeding 32,000. Critics warn of a return to authoritarianism, a concern fueled by Saied’s 2021 power grab, which saw him dissolve parliament and consolidate presidential power. While Saied maintains his actions were necessary to restore stability, his government continues to face criticism for its handling of the economic crisis, evidenced by the recent dismissal of the finance minister. The low voter turnout in the 2022 legislative elections, largely due to an opposition boycott, further underscores the deep political divisions within the country.

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