TUNISIA: Journalist arrested for reading poem against dictators

By: Ollus Ndomu

Authorities have confirmed arresting
Amer Ayed, a Zitouna TV journalist for reading an excerpt of verses from a popular poem about “dictators in Arab countries and how they treat their people”.

Ayed, a talk show host on Zitouna TV is together with his guest facing accusations of “undermining the security of the state”.

Local political analysts say authorities have taken the reading of a poem on television as an analogy with President Kaid Saied.

In a tweet, Ayed’s friend also confirmed the arrest assuring that the talk show journalist will come out stronger.

Since the illegal suspension of the national assembly by President Saied, authorities have waged war against journalists and lawmakers who criticize the move.

Amidst the worst crackdown on dissent, the opposition described the president’s move as “a coup and a violation of the constitution”.