The Tunisian National Journalists' Union (SNJT) has expressed solidarity with journalist Zied El Heni, who was sentenced to four years in prison. El Heni was convicted in the case known as the "leaked audio recordings," which also implicates Mondher Ounissi, a leader of the Ennahdha movement. The SNJT has called for a revision of the judgment, citing concerns about the fairness of the trial and the protection of journalistic rights.
The SNJT's statement, released on Tuesday evening, emphasized the need to guarantee El Heni's right to a fair trial and to respect all defense guarantees. The union also demanded an end to judicial prosecutions against journalists for their professional work or opinions. Furthermore, the SNJT stressed the importance of protecting journalistic sources and preventing any form of violation or pressure.
El Heni was charged with four counts under anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering legislation. These charges include forming a terrorist organization, disclosing secrets to a terrorist organization, failing to report a terrorist crime, and contacting foreign agents to harm national interests. The case dates back to September 2023, when audio recordings attributed to Mondher Ounissi were leaked.
The Tunis Court of First Instance's specialized criminal chamber for terrorism cases handed down the sentences on Tuesday evening. Mondher Ounissi was sentenced to nine years in prison, while Zied El Heni received a four-year sentence. The court also sentenced Taher Boubahri, who is detained in another case, to 25 years in prison, as well as several fugitive defendants, including Rafik Bouchlaka, Shahrazad Akacha, and Fethi Ayadi.
The SNJT's call for a revision of El Heni's sentence highlights concerns about press freedom and the protection of journalists in Tunisia. The union's statement underscores the importance of ensuring that journalists can work without fear of persecution or reprisal for their work. The case has sparked debate about the balance between national security and journalistic freedom.
The leaked audio recordings at the center of the case have been attributed to Mondher Ounissi, who was then a vice-president of the Ennahdha movement. The recordings sparked a significant reaction in Tunisia, leading to a thorough investigation and subsequent convictions. The SNJT's involvement in the case demonstrates the union's commitment to defending its members and promoting press freedom.
The case raises questions about the application of anti-terrorism laws in Tunisia and their impact on journalists and the media. The SNJT's demands for a revision of El Heni's sentence and greater protection for journalists reflect broader concerns about the state of press freedom in the country. The international community has been watching the developments in this case closely.
Key points
- The SNJT has called for a revision of Zied El Heni's four-year prison sentence.
- The case involves allegations of leaked audio recordings implicating Mondher Ounissi.
- The SNJT is advocating for greater protection of journalists and press freedom in Tunisia.
