Tunisian National Bar Association raises concerns over former President Chawki Tabib's detention conditions
The Tunisian National Bar Association Onat expressed deep concern on Friday, August 21, 2026, regarding the situation of former President Chawki Tabib, who is currently detained at Belli prison. Onat denounced restrictions and violations affecting Tabib's fundamental rights and called for an end to his hunger strike. The association is closely monitoring Tabib's situation, who is facing legal proceedings and restrictions. He began a hunger strike ten days ago and has stopped taking his medication, which Onat finds particularly worrying given his health and chronic illnesses. This statement followed a visit by Onat Council member and treasurer Imed Hermassi, accompanied by lawyer Adel Massoudi, to the prison. Onat specifically criticized the ongoing restrictions on Tabib's medical care, stating he suffers from several chronic diseases requiring regular treatment. A medical prescription from a specialist was reportedly rejected by prison services due to procedural considerations, despite efforts by Tabib's family. The Council also condemned restrictions on lawyer visits, noting Tabib's transfer to Belli prison, outside the jurisdiction of the court handling his case. Furthermore, Onat stated that Tabib, a doctoral student at the Faculty of Law and Political Sciences of Tunis, is being prevented from continuing his studies through "unfounded pretexts." Onat emphasized that defense guarantees, the right to a fair trial, and the right to health must be ensured for all individuals.
