Tunisia: Historic Judgment in the Brahmi Case, Eight Death Sentences and Long Prison Terms

The Tunisian justice system has delivered its ruling in the case of the assassination of Mohamed Brahmi, former MP and general coordinator of the Al-Tayar Al-Chaabi party, who was killed in front of his house on July 25, 2013.

The fifth criminal chamber, specialized in terrorism cases at the First Instance Court of Tunis, handed down sentences varying from life imprisonment to the death penalty for the defendants involved in this crime, which marked a significant moment in the country’s recent history.

Eight death sentences and heavy prison sentences
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the court convicted eight out of nine accused individuals to the death penalty for “undermining state security” and “premeditated murder.” Three of them received a second death sentence for “premeditated murder.” In addition to these sentences, the court also imposed prison terms ranging from 10 to 35 years for charges related to terrorism, including membership in a terrorist organization, possession of weapons, and providing resources to a terrorist group.

Among these convictions, three defendants were condemned to life imprisonment for attempted murder. Other sentences of up to 35 years were given for various charges, including participating in terrorist training and facilitating violent attacks.

A defendant in hiding sentenced to five years in prison
The ninth defendant, currently on the run, was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison for “failure to report a terrorist act.” He was also placed under administrative surveillance for a duration equal to his sentence.

A case with many twists
This verdict comes after several years of procedures and multiple delays. The case was postponed several times, including on February 18, 2025, to allow for a thorough examination of the charges against the accused. This judicial decision represents a significant step in the fight against terrorism in Tunisia and aims to deliver justice for Mohamed Brahmi, whose assassination caused a national and international shockwave.

With this verdict, Tunisia turns a new page in this emblematic case.