France Raises Concerns Over Tunisia’s Sentencing of Opposition Figures

France has criticized the recent sentencing of Tunisian opposition leaders and business figures, saying the individuals did not receive a fair trial and that judicial standards were not upheld.

The criticism follows a weekend court ruling in Tunisia that handed down lengthy prison terms to dozens of individuals accused of conspiring against state security. The case has drawn sharp condemnation from rights groups and opposition figures, who say the charges are politically motivated.

“We are deeply concerned by the harsh sentences imposed on several individuals, including French nationals, and regret the lack of fair trial conditions,” France’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Observers from the media, diplomatic corps, and civil society were reportedly barred from attending the trial.

The case underscores growing concerns about President Kais Saied’s consolidation of power. Since dissolving parliament in 2021 and later dismissing the Supreme Judicial Council, Saied has ruled by decree and removed dozens of judges.

The trial, which began in March, involved 40 defendants. More than 20 are believed to have fled the country after being charged. Businessman Kamel Ltaif received the longest sentence—66 years—while politician Khyam Turki was sentenced to 48 years. Prominent opposition leaders Ghazi Chaouachi, Issam Chebbi, Jawahar Ben Mbrak, and Ridha Belhaj were each given 18-year terms and remain in custody following their arrests last year.

Saied has previously labeled the accused as “traitors and terrorists,” warning that judges who ruled in their favor would be treated as accomplices. The opposition, meanwhile, has rejected the charges and vowed to launch a joint political initiative in response to what they describe as a democratic backslide.