A Tunisian court has handed out prison sentences ranging from 13 to 66 years to various politicians, businessmen, and lawyers, a move condemned as part of President Kais Saied's authoritarian regime. Prominent opposition figures have received severe penalties, spurring accusations from defense lawyers and family members who decry these proceedings as unjust and preordained. Critics argue that the proceedings reflect a broader trend of suppressing dissent since Saied's consolidation of power. Rights groups express concern over his control of the judiciary and the targeting of adversaries, further fueling fears about the state of democracy in Tunisia.
These unjust and vengeful verdicts seek to silence the voices of opposition figures, and we are not surprised by them, said Chaouachi's son Youssef.
The rulings are ready, and what is happening is scandalous and shameful, remarked defence lawyer Ahmed Souab before the ruling.
Authorities accuse the defendants of attempting to destabilise the country and overthrow President Saied, intending to criminalise the opposition, added Nejib Chebbi.
Saied labeled the defendants as traitors and terrorists, suggesting that judges who would acquit them were accomplices in their alleged crimes.
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