United Nations human rights experts called on Wednesday, February 5, for the immediate release of human rights defender and former president of the Truth and Dignity Commission, Seham Ben Sedrine, 75, amid concerns about the rapid deterioration of her health.
In their statement, the experts expressed deep concern over Bensedrine’s rapidly worsening health, stating, “Ms. Ben Sedrine must be released immediately and unconditionally, and any charges against her should be dropped.”
Ben Sedrine had announced on January 14, 2025, that she was going on a hunger strike in protest of her detention, which began in August 2024. Two weeks later, on January 25, she was transferred to the intensive care unit at Rabta Hospital, “Ernest Conseil.”
The experts highlighted their previous statement issued in August 2024, in which they reiterated their concerns that her arrest appeared to be retaliation for her work, particularly her contribution to the Truth and Dignity Commission’s report, which was expected to lead to the prosecution of those responsible for gross violations under previous regimes.
The experts pointed out that under Article 69 of Law 2013-53, which established the commission, members and staff of the Truth and Dignity Commission cannot be held liable for any content of the report, conclusions, opinions, or recommendations related to their work, which was carried out in accordance with the commission’s mandate.
