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Tunisian Opposition Leader Starts Hunger Strike in Prison
, the 82-year-old leader of the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party and a prominent figure in the Tunisian opposition, Monday launched a hunger strike, his party announced..
Imprisoned since last April, Ghannouchi’s action is “in solidarity with all political prisoners currently on hunger strike,” according to a statement from Ennahdha. The move aims to support “all the political opponents in the different prisons” in Tunisia, the party added.
Ghannouchi’s case has become a symbol of the broader crackdown on dissent by President Kais Saied, who seized control of the government in 2021 and has since imprisoned multiple opposition figures. Ghannouchi himself faces multiple charges, including receiving illegal foreign funding, terrorism-related offenses, and “conspiracy against state security.” He has rejected all accusations, calling them politically motivated.
This is not Ghannouchi’s first hunger strike. Several jailed opposition figures, including Jawhar Ben Mbarek and Issam Chebbi from the National Salvation Front, have been on hunger strike for eight days, demanding their release.
DRC Government Dissolved as Prime Minister Resigns
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s government was dissolved Tuesday after Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde tendered his resignation, according to a statement from the presidency.
Lukonde, who served as premier since February 2021, stepped down to focus on his role as a member of parliament following the validation of his mandate eight days ago. His resignation triggers the dissolution of his entire government.
“The resignation has been accepted,” the presidency said, adding that Lukonde’s government will remain in place to handle current affairs until a new administration is formed. No specific reason for Lukonde’s decision was provided.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts to establish a new government following President Felix Tshisekedi’s re-election in December. He has appointed a representative to secure a majority coalition within the National Assembly, paving the way for the formation of a new cabinet.
Lukonde’s tenure saw him navigate a range of challenges, including ongoing violence in the eastern provinces and economic instability. His departure marks a significant transition for the Central African nation as it seeks to consolidate its recent electoral process and address pressing national issues.
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