In Tunisia, Noureddine Bhiri sentenced to 25 years on appeal
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Business News
Tunis Court of Appeal on Thursday 12 November 2026 upheld convictions in the case of passports and nationality certificates issued to foreigners wanted for terrorism, increasing the prison sentences of former Justice Minister Noureddine Bhiri and former security official Fathi Beldi from 20 to 25 years. Four fugitives, including Mouadh Ghanouchi, son of Rached Ghannouchi, remain sentenced to 30 years, according to Business News.
Tunis Court of Appeal increased from 20 to 25 years the prison sentences handed to Noureddine Bhiri, Tunisia’s former justice minister, and Fathi Beldi, a former security official, in the case of passports and nationality certificates issued to foreigners wanted in cases linked to terrorism. The two convictions also carry five years of administrative supervision after the sentences are served, according to Business News.
The chamber upheld the 11-year sentences handed down at first instance against two defendants appearing at liberty, including a former senior official in the prime minister’s office. It also upheld the 30-year prison sentences, with immediate enforcement, against four fugitives, including Mouadh Ghanouchi, son of Rached Ghannouchi, leader of the Ennahdha movement, according to Business News.
The court also provisionally removed former prime minister Hamadi Jebali, a former magistrate and a third defendant from the case. Their situation depends on the examination of their appeals in cassation against the decision ordering their referral to the specialised criminal chamber dealing with terrorism cases, Business News reports.
The 12 November hearing was held remotely from Mornaguia civil prison, while Noureddine Bhiri and Fathi Beldi refused to appear before the court. The case concerns events dating back to 2013 and the circumstances surrounding the issuance of Tunisian identity documents to foreign nationals, according to Business News.
