The Association TUNESS denounces the unwarranted violence that security forces used today April 9, 2012, against the demonstrators who gathered peacefully in commemorations of Martyrs' day. We consider these repressive methods totally unacceptable and especially given that the Tunisian people had hoped that their country has totally turned the page against these totalitarian practices.
Our disappointment and sadness are even greater as this violence targeted courageous people who gathered to defend freedom of expression and to celebrate this great day in Tunisian history. This sad incident, combined with the beating of the unemployed demonstrators on April 7, 2012, is extremely dangerous as we seem to have returned to the days where repression and violence were the norms.
The group TUNESS demands immediate action from the Tunisian Government:
- An immediate investigation on the circumstances of this tragedy.
- The suspension and prosecution of officials responsible for this abusive behavior.
- The respect of the right of assembly and demonstration as specified by the constitution.
The Executive Committee