Tunis, Tunisia – (African Boulevard News) – In a bold move against what they perceive as a biased judicial system, a group of six Tunisian opponents currently in pre-trial detention have decided to boycott the investigating judge assigned to their case. These opponents, who claim to be political prisoners under the Kais Said regime, have been in detention since February this year over an alleged conspiracy against state security.
The decision to boycott the investigating judge was announced by the group’s lawyer, Mahmoud Ben Brahim, during a press conference held in Tunis. Ben Brahim stated, “Our clients have lost faith in the fairness and impartiality of the investigating judge. They believe that this judicial process is politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissenting voices.”
The opponents argue that their prolonged pre-trial detention is a violation of their human rights and an attempt to stifle opposition to President Kais Said’s government. They claim that the charges against them are baseless and politically motivated.
The decision to boycott the investigating judge has received mixed reactions from experts and stakeholders. Dr. Fatima Boulila, a human rights activist, expressed support for the opponents’ decision, stating, “It is a courageous move that highlights the flaws in Tunisia’s judicial system. The opponents’ concerns about bias and political motivations are legitimate, and their boycott sends a strong message to the authorities.”
However, some legal experts have cautioned against the boycott, arguing that engaging with the judicial process is the best way to ensure a fair trial. They urge the opponents to exhaust all legal avenues available to them and rely on the judiciary to deliver justice.
The boycott adds to the ongoing debate regarding the state of democracy in Tunisia. Since assuming power through a controversial constitutional maneuver in July 2021, President Kais Said has faced criticism for his handling of political opposition and his consolidation of power.
The opponents’ decision to boycott the investigating judge is a clear manifestation of discontent with the current government’s approach to dissent. It underscores the urgent need for institutional reforms to ensure the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.
As the Tunisian government faces mounting pressure from both domestic and international critics, the opponents’ boycott serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the country on its path to a fully functioning democracy. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the future of Tunisia’s political landscape.
It remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the boycott and whether it will lead to any changes in the treatment of political opponents. As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on Tunisia, waiting to see if justice will prevail and if the opponents’ concerns regarding a biased judicial system will be addressed.
