Sonia Dahmani

TUNISIA: Lawyer Sonia Dahmani sentenced to 1 year in prison by the Tunisian courts

16 July 2024

 

Tunisian lawyer Sonia Dahmani was sentenced to 1 year in prison for “spreading false news” by the Tunisian courts on 6 July 2024. The information was shared by her daughter on Facebook.

In response to a question about the arrival of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa in Tunisia, Sonia Dahmani sarcastically replied on television: “What extraordinary country are we talking about? The lawyer’s statement was seen as damaging to Tunisia’s image.

The lawyer was subsequently called before the investigating judge on 9 May 2024. However, in the absence of any reasons for the summons, she refused to attend.

Me Dahmani was violently arrested on 11 May 2024 at the Lawyers’ House in Tunis. She was arrested while the France24 news channel was broadcasting live from the Lawyers’ House.

More than 60 lawyers, journalists and political opponents have also been prosecuted.

 

The Observatory strongly condemns this clear attack on the freedom of expression of the lawyer Sonia Dahmani.

The Observatory urges the Tunisian authorities to release Ms Dahmani immediately and unconditionally.

The Observatory reminds the Tunisian State that according to article 19, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, ratified by Tunisia in 1969, “1. Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference. ; 2. Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.”

The Observatory also recalls that in line with the basic principles of the United Nations relating to the role of the Bar, in particular principles 23 and 27:

“Lawyers like other citizens are entitled to freedom of expression, belief, association and assembly. In particular, they shall have the right to take part in public discussion of matters concerning the law, the administration of justice and the promotion and protection of human rights and to join or form local, national or international organizations and attend their meetings, without suffering professional restrictions by reason of their lawful action or their membership in a lawful organization.” (Principle 23)

“Charges or complaints made against lawyers in their professional capacity shall be processed expeditiously and fairly under appropriate procedures. Lawyers shall have the right to a fair hearing, including the right to be assisted by a lawyer of their choice.” (Principle 27)