Tunisia | Journalist Zied El-Heni Gets New 4-Year Sentence

Journalist Zied El-Heni was again sentenced to four years in prison on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, marking a new stage in a case dividing the country. The decision, handed down by the criminal chamber specializing in terrorism cases in Tunis, relates to the 'leaked audio recordings' case, involving notably Mondher Ounissi, former interim president of Ennahdha. The journalist, incarcerated at Mornaguia, attended the hearing remotely after over an hour of technical issues, according to his lawyers. The case, triggered in September 2023, centers on the dissemination of recordings attributed to Mondher Ounissi, mentioning meetings with businesspeople and financial misconduct linked to Ennahdha. Initially summoned as a witness, Zied El-Heni ended up being prosecuted after accusations of possession and exploitation of these recordings. His defense committee is demanding an in-person hearing, highlighting the importance of his right to speak. This new conviction raises questions about freedom of expression and justice in Tunisia. The journalist's lawyers condemn a trial marked by technical obstacles and a lack of transparency. The case, which divides public opinion, reminds of the ongoing tensions around the press and political issues.