Press release
Geneva – February 26, 2024
The Committee for Justice (CFJ) strongly condemns the referral of Tunisian journalist Haitham Mekki to trial for his journalistic work, specifically for a news report exposing issues at the Habib Bourguiba Hospital’s morgue in Sfax. Mekki is set to appear before the judiciary on May 16, 2024, under the provisions of Article 24 of Decree 54, targeting crimes related to information and communication systems.
The trial stems from a case filed by Habib Bourguiba Hospital in Sfax against Mekki for his coverage in April 2023, revealing the morgue’s capacity issues and the presence of bodies, including irregular migrants, in the hospital’s corridors. Mekki shared visual documentation on Facebook.
CFJ unequivocally rejects the decision to subject Haitham Mekki to trial and emphasizes the importance of upholding freedom of expression and press freedom. Journalists play a vital role as the fourth authority, acting as watchdogs and providing a check on power.
The Committee for Justice calls upon Tunisian authorities to respect the fundamental principles of a free press and expression. It urges the creation of an environment conducive to journalism, where media professionals can carry out their work without fear of persecution or reprisal for their opinions or legitimate reporting.
