Tunis — A Tunisian court has sentenced Member of Parliament Ahmed Saidani to eight months in prison over social media posts that made fun of President Kais Saied, sparking a debate on freedom of expression in the country.
Saidani was arrested early this month for posting comments mocking the president’s visits to flood-stricken areas, using ironic language which prosecutors claim was an insult to the president of the state. Saidani was sued according to the telecommunications law, which bans insults online and punishes offenders with imprisonment.
The ruling sentenced Saidani to eight months in prison after a short hearing held in Tunis. Saidani is expected to challenge the sentence.
The case brings into light a series of prosecutions that target politicians, activists, and reporters who allegedly engaged in defamation, spread false news, or challenged state institutions since President Saied concentrated all powers in his hands in July 2021.
Proponents of the President declare that the application of law aims to protect public order and institutions, while critics argue that the verdict is evidence of a narrowing space for parliamentary critics and independence.