Tunisia Sees Sharp Rise in Politically Motivated Arrests, New Report Reveals
A newly released report has raised serious concerns over the state of political freedoms in Tunisia, revealing a significant increase in politically motivated arrests. According to findings published by prominent human rights observers, the North African country has dramatically expanded its use of arbitrary detentions to suppress opposition voices, journalists, activists, and government critics.
The report documents a troubling pattern of repression under President Kais Saied’s administration, particularly since the controversial suspension of parliament in 2021 and subsequent consolidation of power. Analysts point to a broader strategy aimed at silencing dissent ahead of upcoming elections, with the government allegedly using the judiciary and security forces as tools of political control.
In recent months, dozens of opposition figures, former lawmakers, and civil society leaders have reportedly been detained without clear charges or due process. Many of those targeted are affiliated with political parties or organizations that have expressed criticism of the current regime.
International watchdog groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have condemned the trend, describing it as a serious erosion of democratic principles in what was once considered a beacon of hope during the Arab Spring. The Tunisian government, however, denies the accusations, asserting that arrests are conducted within the framework of national security and law enforcement.
The growing number of politically driven detentions is seen by experts as a part of a wider crackdown on civil liberties, including restrictions on press freedom, freedom of assembly, and judicial independence. Legal reforms introduced under Saied’s rule have been criticized for giving the executive branch excessive control over judges and prosecutors.
Tunisian citizens and human rights advocates continue to call for the restoration of democratic norms and an end to the persecution of political opponents. With elections looming and international scrutiny intensifying, the trajectory of Tunisia’s political landscape remains uncertain.
As pressure mounts both at home and abroad, the world watches closely to see whether Tunisia will reverse course or deepen its authoritarian shift.
Source : Swifteradio.com
