Tunisia accused of muzzling dissent ahead of elections

London, 23 Oct-(ANA)-Amnesty International has accused the authorities in Tunisia of repression ahead of  presidential and legislative elections on 25 October.

In a statement, Amnesty said the Tunisian government goes to great efforts internationally to portray the country as an open and tolerant society in which the rule of law is upheld, but that in reality, political parties opposed to the government remain banned or critically hamstrung by restrictions.

Government critics, including human rights defenders, are subject to oppressive surveillance, threats, harassment and physical violence by government officials or people acting on their behalf.

The media remains largely under state ownership, control or influence and journalists who criticise the government or report on alleged corruption in official circles face harassment, intimidation and imprisonment.

Reports say incumbent President Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, who has been in power for the last 22 years and is now opposed by three other candidates, will be re-elected as president.

The ruling Constitutional Democratic Rally (RCD) party is also expected to retain a majority of the seats in the parliament.

The findings are the outcome of  a visit to Tunisia by Amnesty International delegation, from 22 September to 4 October 2009. Government officials are said to have declined to meet Amnesty International during the visit. (ANA)

FA/ANA/23 October 2009----