Tunisian opposition figure Abir Moussi has been sentenced to 12 years in prison in a ruling that has drawn sharp criticism from rights groups and international observers who say it marks another step toward consolidating President Kais Saied’s power.
Moussi, leader of the Free Destourian Party and a prominent critic of Saied’s government, was found guilty of charges that include undermining public order and attacking state security, allegations her supporters and independent legal analysts describe as politically motivated. The trial, which took place in a state security court, lasted several weeks and was marked by tense exchanges between the defence and prosecuting authorities.
Rights organisations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have condemned the sentence, saying it signals a deepening crackdown on dissent in Tunisia. “This ruling appears designed to eliminate a key political opponent and sends a chilling message to those who challenge the executive’s authority,” a joint statement from the groups said.
Moussi’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal the verdict, arguing that the proceedings were marred by procedural irregularities and that the evidence presented did not meet international legal standards for a fair trial. They have also called on the Tunisian judiciary to uphold its independence and reject what they describe as executive interference.
Since President Saied’s controversial 2021 power consolidation, which included dissolving parliament and assuming executive and legislative authority, Tunisia’s political landscape has shifted sharply. Critics say democratic checks and balances have eroded, with opposition leaders, journalists, and civil society activists facing increased legal and administrative pressure.
The sentence against Moussi has reignited domestic protests and drawn responses from foreign governments and international institutions. Some European lawmakers and diplomatic missions have expressed concern about the state of political freedoms in Tunisia and urged authorities to respect human rights and the rule of law.
Supporters of the ruling maintain that the judiciary acted independently and that Moussi’s conviction reflects violations of Tunisian law. They argue that political and public order must be upheld, particularly amid regional instability and economic challenges.
Moussi, a former member of Tunisia’s parliament and a presidential candidate in earlier elections, has long been a vocal opponent of Saied’s centralisation of state power. Her imprisonment removes one of the most prominent voices of organised political opposition in the country.
The case is expected to have lasting implications for Tunisia’s domestic politics, potentially discouraging opposition activity and reinforcing perceptions of an increasingly controlled political environment.
