The Tunisian judicial community is mourning the loss of Rachid Sabbagh, a highly respected jurist who passed away on September 15, 2026. Sabbagh had a long and distinguished career in the judiciary, serving in various positions, including as the First President of the Court of Cassation. He was known for his competence, ease, probity, and integrity, and his name will always be closely associated with the judiciary and justice in Tunisia.
Throughout his career, Sabbagh occupied various positions within the judicial hierarchy, including presiding over several chambers of the Tunis Court of First Instance and the Tunis Court of Appeal. He also directed the cabinets of Ministers of Justice Mohamed Bellalouna and Slaheddine Baly from 1971 to 1973. In addition to his judicial work, Sabbagh was a prolific writer, publishing numerous articles, studies, and books on various legal disciplines, including a notable work on commercial leases.
In February 1991, Sabbagh was appointed as the First President of the Administrative Tribunal, a position he held until January 1992. During his tenure, he earned the respect and esteem of judges and administrative personnel for his delicacy and remarkable know-how. One of the most significant achievements of his time at the tribunal was the judgments rendered in November 1991, which rehabilitated and upheld the rights of judges who had been revoked in 1985 for their affiliation with the Association of Tunisian Magistrates and their participation in a strike.
After his time at the Administrative Tribunal, Sabbagh continued to work as a jurist and expert, undertaking missions for international organizations and countries. He was also an experienced arbitrator, both nationally and internationally, and was recognized for his mastery of the intricacies of law. Another significant aspect of his career was his membership and presidency of the Islamic Supreme Council, where he demonstrated an open-minded approach, embodying the "Tunisian synthesis" of tradition and modernity.
In 2013, Sabbagh was appointed as the Minister of National Defense, a position he held until 2014. He carried out this role with impartiality and honor, further solidifying his reputation as a respected and dedicated public servant. Sabbagh was also an active participant in Tunisia's cultural and intellectual life, frequently attending gatherings and events organized by prominent figures in the judiciary and literary circles.
Rachid Sabbagh's legacy extends beyond his impressive career, as he leaves behind a generation of disciples and a community of colleagues who will remember him for his commitment to justice and his contributions to the development of the Tunisian legal system. His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from across the country, with many paying homage to his life's work and dedication to the principles of justice.
As the Tunisian community comes to terms with the loss of this remarkable jurist, his memory will continue to inspire future generations of lawyers, judges, and public servants. His impact on the country's justice system and his commitment to the values of justice and integrity will remain a lasting testament to his remarkable life and career.
Key points
- Rachid Sabbagh, a distinguished Tunisian jurist and former minister of defense, passed away on September 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy in the country's justice system.
- Sabbagh had a long and distinguished career in the judiciary, serving in various positions, including as the First President of the Court of Cassation.
- He was a prolific writer, publishing numerous articles, studies, and books on various legal disciplines, and was recognized for his mastery of the intricacies of law.
