馃嚬馃嚦TunisiaNorth Africa
Seif Eddine Makhlouf boycotts justice system, refuses future court appearances
via Business News5 min read
Former deputy and lawyer Seif Eddine Makhlouf announced on Thursday, April 23, 2026, through his lawyer Abdelwaheb Maatar, his categorical refusal to appear before Tunisian courts in the future, citing a lack of independence. Makhlouf, currently detained in Sfax prison, expressed anger over his transfer from Mornaguia prison, calling the decision "arbitrary" and "illegal," despite finding current detention conditions acceptable. He challenges the entire judicial system, stating he no longer recognizes "judges," "justice," or "law," and refers to cases as fabricated, denouncing "violations" and "excesses." Makhlouf considers his decision to boycott hearings, which he views as "mock trials," to be "definitive," believing his presence would only "legitimize" a judicial charade. He attributes his and other activists' incarcerations to "political orders" that he believes will eventually disappear. Makhlouf, who was transferred to Sfax prison on April 7, 2026, after his extradition from Algeria on January 18, remains hopeful for a change in the situation, despite being prepared for a prolonged detention. His stance follows the confirmation of a five-month prison sentence on March 31, 2026, in the "airport case" from March 2021, involving an altercation with security forces. He also faces other convictions related to political altercations, social media posts, and undermining the prestige of military justice, which include a five-year ban from practicing law. This position marks a c
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