Tunis, 4 October 2025 — A Tunisian court has handed down a death sentence to a man accused of insulting President Kais Saied and undermining state security through posts on social media, according to his lawyer and the Tunisian League for Human Rights.
Unprecedented Ruling
The defendant, identified as Saber Chouchane, a 56‑year‑old day labourer, was convicted on charges including attempting to overthrow the state, insulting the president, and spreading false information online. His lawyer, Oussama Bouthalja, described the ruling as “shocking and unprecedented,” confirming that an appeal has been filed.
Legal and Political Context
The case was tried under Tunisia’s penal code and the controversial Decree 54 cybercrime law, introduced in 2022, which critics say has been used to stifle dissent. While Tunisian courts occasionally issue death sentences, no execution has been carried out since 1991.
Human Rights Concerns
Rights groups have condemned the ruling, warning it represents a severe escalation in restrictions on free expression since President Saied consolidated power in 2021 by dissolving parliament and ruling by decree. Activists argue the sentence is intended to instil fear among critics and further erodes judicial independence.
Public Reaction
The verdict has sparked outrage and ridicule on social media, with many Tunisians expressing disbelief. Chouchane’s family, already struggling with poverty, said the ruling has deepened their sense of injustice. “We can’t believe it… oppression and injustice have now been added to poverty,” his brother told reporters.
Outlook
The judgment is being closely watched both domestically and internationally, as Tunisia — once hailed as the success story of the Arab Spring — faces mounting criticism over its democratic backsliding and treatment of political opponents and civil society voices.
Sources: South China Morning Post, Straits Times, Daily Mail
