Tunisian political party Ennahda has strongly condemned a recent court ruling sentencing its leader, Rached Ghannouchi, to two years in prison. The party claims the sentence is directly related to Ghannouchi’s charitable donation to the Tunisian Red Crescent.
According to Ennahda, the court’s decision stems from an investigation into financial transactions involving members of parliament following the 2019 elections, during which Ghannouchi served as Speaker. This investigation includes a review of past donations made by parliamentarians to ensure compliance with legal procedures.
While specific charges against Ghannouchi remain unclear, Ennahda asserts that the case centers on his donation of the Gandhi Peace Prize, awarded to him in 2016, to the Tunisian Red Crescent. The party argues that authorities have struggled to find a legitimate basis for criminalizing the donation, resorting instead to alleging non-compliance with legal procedures, specifically regarding the method of delivery of the funds.
The Gandhi Peace Prize, presented by the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation of India, recognizes individuals globally who promote peace and tolerance. Ennahda maintains that Ghannouchi’s donation, exceeding $14,000, was intended to support the Red Crescent’s humanitarian work both within Tunisia and abroad. The party emphasized that the donation was made publicly at an event attended by officials and covered by the media.
Ennahda has denounced what it describes as a continuous targeting of Ghannouchi and the repeated issuance of sentences against him in politically motivated cases. The party demands the lifting of all injustices against Ghannouchi, his release from prison, and the release of all political detainees.
Ghannouchi has been imprisoned since his arrest on April 17, 2023, following a security raid on his home. He was initially detained in connection with accusations of ‘terrorism’ but this new sentencing adds to a growing list of legal challenges facing the prominent political figure.
This is a developing story. DZWatch will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
