A Tunisian court on Tuesday upheld an eight-year prison sentence imposed on anti-racism activist Saadia Mosbah for financial misconduct, according to two of her lawyers. Mosbah, who heads the anti-discrimination Mnemty association, was arrested in 2024 as part of a broader crackdown on non-governmental organizations that provided assistance to undocumented migrants from sub-Saharan African countries in Tunisia.
Activist's Role and Background
Mosbah had been at the forefront of defending sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia, particularly after a 2023 speech by President Kais Saied in which he denounced “hordes of illegal migrants” as a demographic threat. Her activism included leading efforts to pass a 2018 law prohibiting racial discrimination, a milestone she championed.
Legal Proceedings and Defense Arguments
Defense lawyers have consistently maintained Mosbah’s innocence. Lawyer Hayet Jazzar told the court, “Saadia is an activist and thanks to her, we have a law against racism that we are proud of.” Jazzar argued that the case against Mosbah, who is black, was “triggered by hate speech.” Another defense lawyer, Bassem Trifi, said Mosbah had been “targeted by a racist campaign on social media” shortly before her arrest in 2024. Trifi recounted that Mosbah had told him “she felt something was strange” prior to her detention.
International Criticism and Concerns
Amnesty International issued a statement calling the trial “based on unfounded financial criminal charges.” The organization further stated that Mosbah’s verdict was “tainted” by a “coordinated racist smear campaign.” Amnesty added, “We are particularly concerned by reports that Saadia Mosbah has been subjected to racism and a physical assault in prison that may amount to torture.”
Broader Context of Crackdown
The case is part of a wider crackdown on NGOs in Tunisia that have supported sub-Saharan migrants, many of whom faced hostility following President Saied’s 2023 remarks. Mosbah’s detention and sentencing have drawn international scrutiny, with human rights groups condemning the legal proceedings as politically motivated.
