Tunisian journalist detained on financial charges
A prominent Tunisian journalist, Mohamed Yousfi, remains in custody, detained on allegations of illicit enrichment and money laundering. Yousfi, editor-in-chief of Al-Qatiba, was arrested Friday preparing for a radio program to discuss Tunisia's water situation, a sensitive national issue.The National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists condemned Yousfi's detention, linking charges to his critical reporting and raising serious press freedom concerns. The union states Yousfi's legal team said an investigation opened for his social media posts, questioning his work and Al-Qatiba's editorial line. Critics argue the financial crime allegations are a pretext to target journalists critical of the government.Yousfi is known for criticism of Tunisian President Kais Saied's policies. His lawyer, Hela Ben Salem, indicated the charges fall under "anti-terror and illicit enrichment laws" but maintained the case lacks concrete evidence of wrongdoing.Concerns for Yousfi's health emerged after he fell ill in custody and underwent appendicitis surgery. He remains hospitalized, denied visitors, says the journalists' union president.Rights organizations warn of deteriorating civil liberties and press freedom in Tunisia since President Saied consolidated power in 2021. They point to a pattern of arrests and prosecutions targeting journalists, lawyers, and opposition figures. Other media professionals are imprisoned or face legal action, raising fears among independent voices. The National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists has warned of a "systematic killing of journalism" and described the situation as "prison, prosecution or exile."
