TUNIS – A Tunisian court has sentenced Rached Ghannouchi, leader of the Ennahda movement, to two years in prison and imposed a substantial fine. The verdict was delivered on Friday, according to reports from the North African nation.
The case reportedly centers around financial transactions involving members of parliament between 2019 and 2024, a period during which Ghannouchi served as Speaker of Parliament. The exact details of the charges remain unclear, with judicial authorities yet to release a full statement.
Samir Dilou, a lawyer representing individuals described as ‘political detainees,’ stated that the case is related to a $14,000 reward Ghannouchi received from an organization promoting Gandhian values of peace and tolerance in 2016. Ghannouchi allegedly donated the money to the Tunisian Red Crescent.
Dilou also claimed that the court issued its ruling without a formal interrogation of Ghannouchi.
Ghannouchi, 84, has been detained since April 2023 and faces several other charges, including allegations of terrorism, financial corruption, and conspiracy against state security. The new sentence adds to the legal challenges facing the prominent political figure in Tunisia. The fine imposed is reportedly equivalent to approximately $68,000 US dollars.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as they become available.
