Press release
Geneva – April 22, 2024
Najib Chebbi, the head of the National Salvation Front and a prominent advocate for political detainees’ rights in Tunisia, revealed that he has been summoned for investigation by the anti-terrorism judicial unit on three counts, including alleged involvement in a conspiracy against state security.
Speaking at a scheduled vigil on Habib Bourguiba Street organized by the Front to demand the release of political detainees, Chebbi expressed his dismay, stating, “I was summoned before the investigating judge, who did not appear. Instead, the investigation clerk informed me of three charges against me.”
Chebbi further elaborated that these charges lack substantiating evidence or clarity on the alleged offenses, which he views as baseless and insulting. “As a Tunisian citizen of eighty years, I have never engaged in dishonorable or morally
questionable activities. I do not seek personal gain; rather, I bear the responsibility to truthfully voice my efforts through civil and peaceful means,” he emphasized.
The charges leveled against Chebbi include alleged association with a terrorist group, failure to report a terrorist offense, and conspiracy against Tunisia’s internal and external security.
In response to these developments, the Committee for Justice (CFJ) has expressed unwavering support for Najib Chebbi, denouncing the charges as targeting his legitimate and peaceful human rights advocacy. The CFJ urges authorities to cease arbitrary actions against Chebbi and calls for an end to the unjust targeting of human rights defenders within Tunisia.
