Tunisian Crackdown: Opposition Leaders Face Harsh Sentences

Tunisian authorities detained opposition figure Chaima Issa amid escalating tensions over President Kais Saied's rule. An appeals court issued severe prison terms, sparking criticism of authoritarianism. Issa's arrest, alongside others, marks a contentious development in Tunisian politics as prominent figures face lengthy sentences.

In a significant development in Tunisian politics, police detained key opposition leader Chaima Issa on Saturday, enforcing a 20-year prison sentence. Issa was arrested at a protest in the country's capital, according to her legal representatives.

This arrest follows a decision by an appeals court on Friday that imposed jail terms ranging from several years to a maximum of 45 years on several opposition figures, including leaders, businessmen, and lawyers. They were convicted of conspiracy to overthrow the president. Critics argue this move reflects President Kais Saied's growing authoritarian tendencies.

The recent court decisions and subsequent arrests have intensified the political climate in Tunisia, drawing significant national and international attention to the current administration's approach to handling dissent.

(With inputs from agencies.)