Press Release
The Tunisian Military Judiciary Administration announced that the military prosecutor in Sfax has authorized the opening of an investigation against blogger and former prison officer Thamer Bdeida, along with any other implicated individuals identified during the investigation. The charges include “attempting to harm the integrity of Tunisian territory through writing, committing an affront to the head of state, and undermining the dignity of the national army.”
This announcement was reported in a statement by the Tunisian official news agency on Friday, November 29, 2024. The agency detailed that the investigation also encompasses accusations related to disseminating and promoting false news to harm public safety and national defense, as well as using information systems to spread fabricated news tarnishing the reputation of public officials.
– President Qais Saied’s visit:
The agency noted that the investigation follows a field visit by Tunisian President Qais Saied to the military field hospital in Bir Ali Ben Khalifa, in Sfax Governorate. The visit was deemed a sensitive context necessitating scrutiny of potential threats.
– Prior legal issues:
It is worth noting that Thamer Bdeida was sentenced to nine years in prison on October 25, 2024, on charges related to “fraud and theft using official capacities,” with an immediate enforcement order.
Additionally, on October 19, 2024, the Public Prosecution Office at the Judicial Pole for Counterterrorism launched separate investigations against Bdeida. These investigations involve charges of “forming a terrorist group, inciting others to join it, conspiring against internal and external state security, collaborating with foreign entities, inciting unrest, and disseminating rumors and false news.”
– Calls to end arbitrary actions:
CFJ has condemned the new measures against Bdeida, considering them a flagrant violation of international standards on freedom of expression. The committee demands an immediate halt to these oppressive actions, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding human rights defenders and ensuring they are not targeted in any way for their advocacy or expression of opinions.
