Tunisian Journalists Jailed for Criticizing Government
In a controversial move, two Tunisian journalists were sentenced to one year in prison for criticizing the government on their TV and radio programs as well as on social media. Borhane Bsais and Mourad Zeghidi were accused of spreading “fake news” and defaming President Kais Saied, under the contentious Decree 54 law.
Despite denying the allegations and citing freedom of expression laws in Tunisia, the journalists were handed lengthy prison terms. The trial has sparked international condemnation and led to protests by journalists in Tunisia, who fear being targeted under Decree 54 for simply doing their jobs.
This case highlights the ongoing crackdown on freedom of speech in Tunisia, with 39 journalists already prosecuted this year under similar charges. President Saied’s controversial actions, including suspending parliament and rewriting the constitution, have divided opinions and led to increased scrutiny on the government’s handling of various issues.
With concerns growing over press freedom in the country, the fate of journalists like Bsais and Zeghidi raises important questions about the state of democracy and human rights in Tunisia.