Tunisian opposition figures demand public trial in ‘plot against state’ case

Jailed Tunisian opposition figures are demanding a public trial, rejecting remote hearings set for March 4, according to AFP. Nearly 40 politicians, lawyers, and journalists face charges of conspiracy and terrorism, many being arrested in February 2023 after President Kais Saied called them “terrorists”.

Among the detained are opposition leaders Jawhar Ben Mbarek, Abdelhamid Jelassi, and Issam Chebbi. In a letter read by his father, Ben Mbarek denounced the charges as "fabricated" and accused authorities of "judicial harassment." Other detainees, including former minister Ridha Belhaj, insisted on an open trial to ensure fairness. 

While some defendants remain in custody, others have fled abroad, including human rights activist Bochra Belhaj Hmida. Critics argue that the case reflects Saied’s broader crackdown on dissent. The trial will be a key test of Tunisia’s judicial independence amid growing concerns over democratic backsliding.