Press Release
The Committee for Justice (CFJ) has observed arbitrary measures announced by Hanen Kaddas, spokesperson for the Judicial Counterterrorism Unit, against political activist Thamer Bdeida, who resides outside Tunisia. Kaddas stated on the evening of Saturday, October 19, 2024, that the Public Prosecutor had authorized a broad investigation to press terrorism charges against Bdeida and to monitor any other individuals potentially implicated during the investigation.
Alleged charges of incitement to rebellion and espionage:
The spokesperson explained that the investigations are based on video clips and statements Bdeida shared on his social media pages, which were described as posing a threat to state security and inciting rebellion.
Authorities reportedly ordered that Bdeida be added to a wanted list and mandated necessary technical investigations to identify others who might be involved, with Kaddas affirming the investigation’s continuation.
These charges stem from what the judicial spokesperson referred to as “Bdeida’s dissemination of videos attacking state institutions and calling for rebellion,” as well as “spreading false information and inciting against the current regime.”
Kaddas added that Bdeida also seeks “to engage with foreign entities to influence the country’s internal policies and destabilize it,” which the authorities deemed a serious threat.
Concerns about restricting freedom of expression and calls to cease actions:
CFJ voices strong opposition to these measures, viewing them as a clear violation of freedom of expression and a targeted action against political opponents in Tunisia. CFJ notes that these steps contradict human rights principles and impose unwarranted restrictions on opposition political activities, describing them as “silencing dissenting voices.”
The committee further emphasizes that these actions come amid increasing pressure on political activists and independent media outlets. CFJ pointed out that on October 2, the Public Prosecutor had previously issued instructions to investigate Bdeida and others on similar charges, a move observer consider an escalation against freedom of expression.
CFJ concludes statement by outright rejecting what it described as “arbitrary actions” against political activists, calling for a review of these policies targeting opposition figures and adherence to constitutional principles that guarantee freedom of opinion and expression. The committee reiterates the need to halt all actions against Bdeida.
