A Tunisian appeal court on Wednesday upheld the convictions of workers and trade union activists, who had lodged an appeal against their conviction and sentence in December 2008, in connection with the Gafsa protests.
Trade unionists Adnan Hajji and Bechir Laabidi as well as 36 others were accused of leading unrest against unemployment and high living costs in the phosphate-rich Gafsa region of south-east Tunisia earlier in 2008. They were among hundreds arrested.
"We urge the Tunisian president to intervene and order the release of those sentenced for merely exercising their right to freedom of expression, in a peaceful manner," said Malcolm Smart, Middle East and North Africa Programme Director.
Most sentences were reduced on appeal, including from 10 years to eight years for Adnan Hajji and Bechir Laabidi. Five others, who were released after the decision of the court of first instance, were convicted by the Appeal Court following an appeal by the prosecution.
Charges against all 38 included "forming a criminal group with the aim of destroying public and private property" and "armed rebellion and assault on officials during the exercise of their duties".
Trade unionists Adnan Hajji and Bechir Laabidi as well as 36 others were accused of leading unrest against unemployment and high living costs in the phosphate-rich Gafsa region of south-east Tunisia earlier in 2008. They were among hundreds arrested.
"We urge the Tunisian president to intervene and order the release of those sentenced for merely exercising their right to freedom of expression, in a peaceful manner," said Malcolm Smart, Middle East and North Africa Programme Director.
Most sentences were reduced on appeal, including from 10 years to eight years for Adnan Hajji and Bechir Laabidi. Five others, who were released after the decision of the court of first instance, were convicted by the Appeal Court following an appeal by the prosecution.
Charges against all 38 included "forming a criminal group with the aim of destroying public and private property" and "armed rebellion and assault on officials during the exercise of their duties".
