Civil society, politicians, and journalists mobilize for the release of journalist Zied El-Heni
via Business News3 min read
A collective of civil society actors, politicians, and media professionals issued a joint statement on Monday, April 27, 2026, calling for the release of journalist Zied El-Heni and denouncing increasing pressure on independent media. The signatories stated that El-Heni's detention on April 24, 2026, is part of a broader trend of "pressure, prosecutions, and trials" targeting information professionals. They argue that the charges against him, based on Article 86 of the Telecommunications Code, undermine freedom of expression and the journalistic profession. The statement links this case to others, including the incarceration of journalists Mourad Zeghidi and Borhen Bsaies, detained for over 700 days, and the prosecution of lawyer and columnist Sonia Dahmani. The signatories also warned about threats to the independent media outlet Inkyfada, which could face dissolution. They criticized the use of legal provisions like decree-law 54 and Article 86 of the Telecommunications Code, which they deem inconsistent with the Constitution and Tunisia's international commitments, while regretting the marginalization of decree-law 115, considered the reference legal framework for the media and publishing sector. The collective expressed solidarity with professional and independent press freedom organizations, including the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists and the Press Council, as well as alternative media and critical voices, which they believe are exposed to smear campaigns an
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Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad, spoke by phone with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad, on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The two ministers reaffirmed the unique nature of Tunisian-Egyptian relations and highlighted the strong historical and fraternal ties between the two countries. They welcomed the positive evolution of bilateral cooperation across several sectors and expressed a shared desire to further strengthen these relations to higher levels, serving the interests of both peoples. They also praised the outcomes of the 18th session of the Tunisian-Egyptian Joint High Commission, held in Cairo in September 2025, emphasizing the importance of regular follow-up on its conclusions. The stated objective is to give new impetus to the partnership between Tunis and Cairo, particularly in economic, commercial, and investment fields, while exploring new cooperation opportunities. Regional developments, especially the situation in Libya, were also a significant part of their discussions. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the results of the meeting of the tripartite mechanism of Libya's neighboring countries, organized in Cairo on May 21, 2026. Nafti reiterated Tunisia's consistent position in favor of preserving Libya's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as respecting its national institutions. The Tunisian minister stress
The Gabès section of the Tunisian League for Human Rights LTDH expressed deep concern on July 25, 2026, regarding two detainee deaths at Gabès civil prison, which it described as "suspicious." The deceased were identified as Ali Bejaoui and Ali Ben Tijani Ben Mohamed Mansi, the latter of whom had a disability. The LTDH reported collecting testimonies indicating deteriorating detention conditions, including repeated water and electricity cuts, significant overcrowding, and cases of suffocation among detainees. The organization believes these conditions endanger physical integrity and raise questions about adherence to minimum standards for individuals deprived of liberty. The LTDH extended condolences to the families and called for an urgent, independent, and transparent investigation to determine the circumstances of the deaths, assign responsibility, and draw legal consequences. It also urged authorities to intervene promptly to improve conditions by ensuring continuous water and electricity supply and addressing overcrowding. The Gabès section requested permission to visit the prison to assess the situation firsthand and implored competent authorities to uphold their responsibility in protecting detainees' rights to life, health, and dignity. The LTDH stated it would continue to monitor the case and initiate legal and human rights actions as deemed appropriate.
Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed did not deliver a speech or official message to Tunisians on July 25, Republic Day, a date that holds significant political symbolism, especially since the institutional shift in 2021. This absence was observed by internet users and follows a pattern, as Saïed also omitted greetings for Eid al-Kebir, breaking from a political tradition where public officials address citizens on such occasions. Since taking office, Saïed has favored communication through videos on the presidency's official page during meetings or field visits, rather than formal speeches. This silence occurs amidst significant social tensions, including economic and social difficulties, and daily challenges for Tunisians, such as repeated electricity cuts during a heatwave, which have caused widespread frustration. While a major political announcement might not have been expected, a sign of presidential presence and acknowledgment of the difficulties was anticipated. This growing trend of presidential silence on key occasions has led to a sense of resignation among some of the public, becoming an integrated part of the political landscape.