The recent arrest of the Secretary General of the Ennahdha party, Ajmi Ouirimi, along with two other party members, Mohamed Ghanoudi and Mosaab Gharbi, marks a significant escalation in Tunisia‘s political crackdown.
Development Diaries reports that they were arrested on 13 July during what seemed to be a regular ID road check, and they have remained detained without charge, according to Amnesty International.
These arrests signal an intensification of efforts to suppress opposition voices. The targeting of key political figures from Ennahdha, a prominent opposition party, reflects a broader strategy to dismantle political dissent and consolidate power, raising serious concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in Tunisia.
By law, Tunisia must prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention and provide for the right of any person to challenge the lawfulness of their arrest or detention in court, but there continue to be reported incidents of arbitrary arrests and detentions in the country.
According to reports, when Ouirimi, Ghanoudi, and Gharbi were taken into custody by the Tunisian National Guard, they were not aware of any ongoing investigations or search warrants against them.
In addition, their lawyers have been refused access to the case file and specifics of the accusations made against their clients, and they have been prohibited from meeting with them for the past 48 hours.
Human rights organisations have long warned about the deteriorating political climate in Tunisia, emphasising the growing trend of arbitrary arrests and suppression of free expression.
The arrest of opposition figures without transparent legal procedures underscores the use of state machinery to intimidate and silence critics.
It is also a violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to political participation, freedom of assembly, and due process.
The lack of clear charges and the context of these arrests suggest a politically motivated attempt to weaken opposition forces, further undermining the principles of justice and the rule of law.
The international community must scrutinise these developments closely and hold Tunisian authorities accountable for their actions.
Ensuring the protection of human rights and upholding democratic values in Tunisia is essential for maintaining regional stability and fostering an environment where political pluralism can thrive.
Development Diaries calls on the Tunisian government to stop the disrespect for human rights and their crackdown against opponents, and ensure the protection and upholding of democratic values in the country.
Source: Amnesty International
Photo source: The New Arab
