A Tunisian inmate has been sentenced to six months in prison after refusing to watch President Kais Saied on television while in his prison cell, sparking outrage across social media and from human rights organizations.
According to Arab News, the man, who had been detained over a separate matter that was eventually dropped, had his freedom denied once more after a cellmate reported him to authorities. His alleged crime? Demanding that the TV channel be changed when a segment featuring President Saied began airing.
Why Was the Inmate Punished?
The Tunisian League for Human Rights in Gafsa condemned the punishment, calling it part of a “policy of silencing dissent, even within prison walls.” The inmate’s lawyer, Sghaier, confirmed his client grew visibly angry, insulted the president, and blamed him for his deportation from Italy, which followed a bilateral deal targeting irregular Tunisian migrants.
The family only learned about the new sentence after showing up at the prison expecting his release.
Is Freedom of Expression Under Attack in Tunisia?
President Saied has faced global criticism for his handling of opposition and dissent, which includes long jail sentences for those who speak against his regime. The latest incident has amplified concerns about freedom of expression even behind bars in Tunisia.
How Are People Reacting Online?
Social media users have been vocal:
- @Kennedy Smith: “TV Nani ndio alinunua?”
- @Isaiah Ngoiah: “Kenya is a blessed country.”
- @Lucina Ongwenyi: “Ingekuwa Kenya tungefungwa wengi.”
- @Maggy Son: “The freedom Kenyans have haiwezi kuwa huku.”
- @GICHARU KURIA MUKUHA: “Kwani ni lazima awatch ata mimi huwa sitaki kuwatch news.”
This case has sparked criticism of Tunisia’s judicial system and also broader conversations about personal freedoms, even in the most unlikely of places: a prison cell.
By Risper Akinyi
