Tunisia Sentences Ex-President Moncef Marzouki to ...

Tunisia Sentences Ex-President Moncef Marzouki to 22 Years in Prison

Zim Now Writer

A Tunisian court has sentenced former President Moncef Marzouki to 22 years in prison in absentia, along with four other individuals, including his former chief of staff Imed Daïmi and ex-head of the Bar Association Abderrazak Kilani.

The ruling, issued by the Criminal Chamber for Terrorism Cases at the Tunis First Instance Court, follows charges related to terrorism, and comes with immediate enforcement.

All five accused, including two unnamed defendants, were tried in absentia and declared fugitives by the Court of Appeals’ terrorism division.

In a defiant response, Marzouki released a statement condemning the sentence as politically motivated, saying it adds to previous rulings totaling 34 years. “This regime is targeting Tunisia’s most honorable citizens,” he said.

“These rulings only deepen Tunisia’s crisis, but democracy will return. The people will rise and reclaim their freedom.”

The latest charges stem from a press conference reportedly held abroad in 2024. Judicial authorities, including spokesperson Hanène Kaddas, accused Marzouki of attacking state institutions and defaming judges, leading to the launch of an inquiry.

President Kais Saied has repeatedly claimed that Tunisia’s judiciary is independent. However, critics argue that the legal system is being used to silence opposition voices.

Since Saied’s power grab in July 2021—marked by the suspension of parliament, removal of judicial oversight, and rule by decree—Tunisia has seen a growing divide.