A Tunisian court has sentenced several former government officials to long prison terms for corruption and misuse of public funds, part of a broader campaign to hold accountable those responsible for mismanagement under previous administrations.
The court, convened in the capital, convicted the ex-officials of embezzling taxpayer money, awarding public contracts in exchange for kickbacks, and abusing their positions to benefit personally. One of the highest-profile cases involved a former minister, who received a 15-year prison sentence.
Judges cited extensive evidence, including bank records, witness testimony, and financial audits, to demonstrate that millions of dinars were diverted from public projects to private accounts. Defendants maintained their innocence, claiming the charges were politically motivated, but the court dismissed these arguments as unfounded.
The rulings underscore Tunisia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency and reduce corruption, a major concern among citizens since the 2011 revolution. Anti-corruption advocates have endorsed the verdicts, saying they send a strong message that no official is above the law.
Authorities said further trials are ongoing, and additional indictments are expected in coming months.
With input from Al Jazeera
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