Rached Ghannouchi's defense committee reports hunger and treatment strike by former Parliament Speaker
Rached Ghannouchi, the 85-year-old former President of Parliament and Ennahdha leader, began a hunger and treatment strike on August 6, 2026, according to his defense committee. The committee stated that Ghannouchi was transferred to a hospital on July 29 and has since been in "total isolation," with lawyers and family members denied visits or information about his health. Ghannouchi's decision to stop eating and taking medication is a protest against this situation, which his defense describes as "cruel and inhumane treatment" and a violation of his fundamental rights. The committee holds Tunisian authorities responsible for any complications to his health, which is described as particularly fragile. They demand that lawyers and family be allowed to visit him and receive updates on his condition. This announcement follows earlier concerns about Ghannouchi's health, including reports of his transfer to a hospital and rumors of his death, which his lawyer initially denied. Ennahdha and Ghannouchi's daughter, Soumaya Ghannouchi, have also expressed concern over the lack of information. Ghannouchi, who has Parkinson's disease and thyroid issues, has been detained since April 2023 and faces multiple legal proceedings, including a life sentence plus 30 years in prison for the "secret apparatus" case, and 40 years of imprisonment in other distinct cases.