Watan-The Tunisian judiciary has issued harsh sentences against several prominent figures, most notably the leader of the Ennahda Movement, Rached Ghannouchi, who was sentenced to 22 years in prison as part of what is known as the “Instalingo case.”
This case involved 41 defendants, including political and media figures. Among them, Ghannouchi’s son-in-law, former minister Rafik Abdessalem, and his son Moaz Ghannouchi were each sentenced to 35 years in prison, while his daughter, Soumaya Ghannouchi, received a 25-year sentence.
Former Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi, who is reportedly in Doha, was also sentenced in absentia to 35 years in prison. The convicted individuals faced multiple charges, including money laundering, conspiracy against state security, attempting to overthrow the government, and inciting chaos—offenses that could carry the death penalty.
The case traces back to the company “Instalingo,” which specializes in media propaganda and content creation and was allegedly involved in suspicious financial activities, according to authorities. However, the company denied the accusations in an official statement on its Facebook page, claiming that the sentences were politically motivated and aimed at eliminating political opponents and critics of the regime.
The verdicts have sparked widespread controversy in Tunisia and beyond, with some viewing them as an attempt to intimidate the opposition and tighten restrictions on media and political freedoms amid what is seen as a decline in democracy in the country.
On the other hand, supporters of President Kais Saied argue that these rulings represent a triumph of justice and affirm the necessity of holding accountable those who have threatened state stability.
The case comes amid a tense political climate, with growing criticism of the regime for restricting freedoms and arresting dissidents, prompting numerous international human rights organizations to express concern over Tunisia’s trajectory.
The harsh sentence against Ghannouchi also raises questions about his fate, as he is 82 years old, meaning he could spend the rest of his life in prison unless the sentence is overturned or reduced on appeal or review.
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