Written question asked by Baroness Lister of Burtersett (Labour) on Monday, 11 March 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 March 2024. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 25 March 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Rached Ghannouchi

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made any representations to the government of Tunisia concerning the case of Rached Ghannouchi, the former Speaker of the Assembly of the Representatives of the People, who has been detained in Mornaguia civil prison since his arrest in April 2023.

Answer: We monitor the political and human rights situation in Tunisia closely. On 18 April 2023, I [Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon] made clear the UK's view that the wave of arrests, including of Rached Ghannouchi and restrictions on political opposition in Tunisia were eroding the space for plurality. I reiterated this message during my meeting with the Tunisian Foreign Minister on 12 October 2023. The Association Council was also an opportunity for the UK to discuss the principles and benefits of an open and democratic society, of legitimate political opposition, the separation of powers, civil society and an inclusive political process.

Secondary information